Ways to know if your baby is getting enough milk

One of the most common concerns for new mothers is wondering if their baby is getting enough milk. In the early days of breastfeeding, babies’ tummies are tiny—about the size of a marble when they're born, holding 1-1.4 teaspoons.

During the first few days postpartum, babies take in smaller, more frequent feeds of colostrum, (Mom's first milk), which arrives in small amounts weeks before delivery and is the perfect food for babies. Colostrum has been referred to as baby’s first medicine, or “liquid gold” since it is packed with nutrients and antibodies that will prime their immune system those first few days earth-side.

Breastfed babies typically eat between 8 and 12 times a day, sometimes more! Responding to their cues is important and will help establish a good milk supply. Babies tend to feed more frequently during growth spurts or when they're not feeling well.

Here are some ways to know if your baby is getting enough:
Feeding Cues

Signs of Satisfaction: Babies usually begin a feeding with clenched fists. As they nurse, their hands will relax and open up, and they will appear content and relaxed after feeding.

Diaper Output

Wet and Dirty Diapers: Your baby should have an adequate number of wet and dirty diapers. Expect about 6-8 wet diapers and at least 3-4 stools per day once your milk comes in.

Weight Gain

Growth and Development: Regular weight checks are important to ensure baby is gaining weight adequately. Babies typically lose a bit of weight in the first few days but should be back to their birth weight by about two weeks old.

Breastfeeding can be wonderfully rewarding but can be a challenging journey for some. If you have concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation professional or healthcare provider for support!

We're here to support you

If you're a breastfeeding mom in the Houston area, my expert team of postpartum doulas is here to support your unique breastfeeding goals. Lactation home visits are currently available in the San Antonio-New Braunfels area.

**Click here if you'd like schedule a free discovery call to learn about more about our services.**

If you are interested in virtual support through your breastfeeding goals, I offer by-the-minute consulting through I Help Moms —[click here for my coaching link]!

Comments

Calm in the Chaos: A Guide to a Restful Postpartum Experience

As a postpartum doula, I get asked a lot of questions about what we do. I've shared a lot about the role of a postpartum doula in my other blog posts, so I'll give you the shortened version. We're often referred to as baby whisperers, but really, we are mother-focused. We are there to support the whole family as they welcome new life, but our priorities lie in mothering the mother during a time when so much revolves around the baby. Sure, we provide expert newborn care, but we are also there to make sure mom's resting, comfortable, and staying nourished so that she can properly heal the baby-sized wound in her belly. In our 'hustle and bustle' society, there's been a message circulating, that's left many women with the impression that they should bounce back as quickly as possible after having their baby. Well, I'm here to spread another message. You can have a slow and restful postpartum that doesn't involve you losing out at...

Celebrating World Doula Week: A Journey of Serving and Supporting Mothers

Long before I knew what a doula was, I had the heart of one. For fifteen years, I’ve been part of a close-knit group of friends that embodies support, love, and sisterhood. My passion for supporting women and admiring mothers began early. At twelve, I became a certified babysitter, and by sixteen, I was caring for babies in my church nursery. My love for babies and mothers wasn’t just a passing phase. Shortly after becoming a mother myself, I discovered the beautiful Greek definition of a doula: "a woman who serves." I felt called to this role and knew I had found my dream job. For the past decade, I’ve had the incredible privilege of serving as a postpartum doula. Each day brings the joy of supporting mothers through their transformative journey into motherhood and breastfeeding. It’s more than a job—it’s a sacred mission of care, compassion, and community. Where Do We Serve? Doulas are everywhere-in hospitals, birthing centers, homes, and communities. We support mothe...

Doula-Approved: My Go-To Items for New Moms and Babies

With so many expectant mamas in my life currently—and over a decade of watching the evolution of baby products—I thought I’d share some of my go-to baby shower gifts, as well as a few items I’ve found aren’t as essential. When you begin your search, you'll run into an overwhelming number of options. So, when you're holding that scanner at Target or adding items to your Amazon cart, I hope this list will support your journey into motherhood! For Mom: Comfy slippers: I love gifting an expectant mama a soft pair of booties with non-slip soles—perfect for wearing around the house while she’s healing and bonding with her new baby. Bath soak: There’s nothing quite like a soothing bath soak. My favorite to gift friends and family is lavender-scented Epsom salt that mamas can use during pregnancy or for moments of relaxation during their postpartum phase when it's safe to soak again. It’s a wonderful way to add a touch of warmth to a mama's self-care routine. Nursing bras: A...

Newby Nurturing Lactation & Postpartum Support

Search This Blog