Breastfeeding: How can I be sure my baby gets enough milk?
My name is Julie Cottle from NaturalTransition.com and these are my top tips to help you know if your baby is getting enough milk. There are many more tips available at my site.
This is such a common concern for mothers. I have spoken to many mothers who say they would feel more comfortable giving their baby a bottle because that way they can measure how much is going in. A bottle is not a good solution here since this can create supply problems, blocked ducts and general interference in what is a delicate balance of supply and demand.
Here is a check list to help you to know that your baby is getting plenty of milk
- Are you feeding your baby according to its need rather than a schedule?
Yes- Super! This the best way to ensure you will maintain a good supply that meets your baby’s needs exactly.
No- Start doing so ASAP, your breasts will quickly adjust to your babies needs and you will be meeting your baby’s appetite in no time.
Does your baby have at least 6 pale wet cloth or 4-5 heavy wet disposable nappies in a 24 hour period?
Yes- Super, this is the best sign that you are meeting your baby’s needs!
No- Check that you have a good attachment and start following the guidelines for increasing your supply. You might find it helpful to see a lactation consultant or to speak with a breastfeeding counsellor.
Is your baby generally content even though there may be times of fussiness, wakefulness and unsettled behaviour?
Yes- Well done!
No- Check that you have a good attachment and start following the guidelines for increasing your supply. You might find it helpful to find a lactation consultant or to speak with a breastfeeding counsellor.
Are your baby’s eyes bright and does baby have good skin tone? If you gently pinch the skin does it spring back into place?
Yes – Great!
No – This is a sign of dehydration. I suggest you take your baby to a hospital and not only get help for your baby but demand help with breastfeeding. Ask to see a lactation consultant to check your baby is attaching properly and to help you get started with a supplemental nursing system while you work at increasing your supply. In this instance a bottle of formula may be necessary to help rehydrate your baby while you get the help you need to get started with a supplemental nursing system.
Has you baby been gaining any weight and grown in length?
Yes – Keep up the good work!
No – This is the least reliable indicator that your baby is getting enough milk. Different scales measure differently and a baby can weigh much less or much more depending on when they last emptied their bowels, weather they had a heavy wet nappy on last time and what clothes they wear during each weighing. Also keep in mind that a baby will lose a little weight after the birth and it can take a bit of time to regain this, especially if your baby got off to a rocky start with medical problems following the birth. If all the other indicators are there but your baby doesn’t appear to have put on any weight or to have grown in length, just make sure you have a good attachment, you are feeding when your baby wants to be fed and continue to check for the other indicators.
If you are concerned about your supply, the best thing to do is to speak to a breastfeeding counsellor or a lactation consultant.
You can call and talk with an Australian Breastfeeding Association counsellor by calling 1800MUM2MUM from anywhere in Australia. You can also e-mail me for help, support and lactation consultant contacts no matter which country you live in. Simply visit my site at http://naturaltransition.com
About the Author
Julie Cottles (http://naturaltransition.com) professional qualifications include: Bachelor of health science, Advanced Diploma of Naturopathy, Diploma of Botanical Medicine, Diploma of Nutritional Medicine, Diploma of Homoeopathy, Diploma of Remedial Massage. Certificate IV in Breastfeeding Counselling, Certificates in Natural Family Planning.
Memberships: Australian Traditional Medicine Society, Australian Breastfeeding Association
Current businesses:
Avena Natural Health Care (clinic)
www.avena.com.au
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