Upon the birth of their baby, new breastfeeding mothers may find it challenging to truly know if they are producing enough breast milk*. Fortunately, your baby is likely to be giving off clear signs that they are in fact getting more than enough nourishment from mommy’s precious Liquid Gold.
Breastfed babies that exhibit the following signs are surely getting plenty of breast milk to satisfy their hunger, growth and development:
- Has regular nursing sessions that total 8-12 feedings within 24 hours. And last for 10 to 30 minutes per breast.
- Makes audible sounds of swallowing during feedings.
- Finishes a feeding on 1 breast on their own and accepts the 2nd breast or falls asleep.
- Has regular bowel movements (2-5 per day) and an average of 5-6 wet diapers a day.
- Gains 4-7 ounces each week (after 1st week of life).
- Is growing, thriving, and appears happy and alert.
It is important that moms not get discouraged and begin supplementing breast milk feedings with infant formula. Infants are prone to nipple confusion when artificial nipples and pacifiers are introduced. Consequently, this can lead to an END to breastfeeding altogether, as baby may begin to refuse the breast as they become accustomed to the artificial nipple and bottle of infant formula. For this reason as well, breastfeeding should ALWAYS be well established, (for several consecutive weeks) before introducing artificial nipples and pacifiers.
Moms should do well to take care of themselves too. Get proper rest, eat a high quality, organic, local, Non-GMO diet, drink plenty of water, reduce stress and trust your instincts when it comes to the health of you and your baby. And if you are legitimately concerned about your milk supply and infant’s health talk to a your healthcare provider, lactation professional, or doula for insight into the matter.
This book is an ideal resource for mothers concerned with their milk supply.
There are great resources available from La Leche League International that can help you have breastfeeding success.
Stay Healthy and Wise!
Sincerely,
Ericka L. Abrams, Public Health Practitioner
*Breast milk is preceded by colostrum, the first milk-fluid that is produced by the breast. It comes in the last few months of pregnancy. It is full of antibodies and immune boosting properties that protect your baby from the many viruses and bacteria in our world. As well, it helps your baby to have their first bowel movement, called meconium. Within a few days, it is replaced by breast milk.
This information is purely education and is not a substitute for the care and advice of a licensed healthcare provider.
