Got (Enough) Milk?
If I had a dollar for every time a breastfeeding mom told me “I don’t know if I’m making enough milk” ….I would have a whole bunch of dollars. A lot of people think they are just going to know how to do all the breastfeeding things- including the inherent knowledge of how much food their baby needs. The reality is, the perception of a low milk supply is the number one reason breastfeeding parents will supplement with formula or change their feeding plan altogether.
That’s not to say that supplementation is a bad thing but if your goal is exclusive breastfeeding, it’s important that you have all the information you need. Your newborn will be hungry, seemingly all the time. That’s because their tummies are tiny and growing! In the first month, your child's stomach will grow from the size of a cooked garbanzo bean all the way to an egg! Those constant feedings can cause feelings of inadequacy in breastfeeding parents. The truth is, your baby will likely be eating about every 2-3 hours for at least a month. Not because you don’t have enough milk, but because it doesn’t take long for them to fill up. Take a look at the table I put together here on Instagram for a better idea of what to expect in the first month or so of your child’s life.
In a 24 hour period, your baby will likely eat 8-12 times a day. The first couple of days you can expect to change 1-3 diapers. For the next few weeks, it’s more typical to need to change 6-8 wet and soiled diapers. Tracking dirty diapers is one of the easiest and most effective ways you can ensure your baby is getting enough milk.
Generally speaking, if you can see and hear your newborn swallowing while they feed and they are actively suckling *not clicking, that’s another conversation* you’re on track.
Alternatively, if your baby appears dehydrated, has dry and wrinkled skin, dry lips or tongue, or has deep and rapid breathing, call your provider immediately.
Knowing just how much is expected can help put things into perspective. In the first few days of your child’s life, you can’t expect to be making 5 or more ounces at a time- and you your baby doesn’t need you to! Stay hydrated, eat good food when you can, and rest as often as you can (0h, and breastfeeding regularly). That’s the best thing you can do for your supply!
