How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?

Signs of adequate intake include: 6+ wet diapers per day after day 4, 3-4 yellow seedy stools daily in first month, steady weight gain after initial loss, and baby seems satisfied after feeding. Your pediatrician will track weight at checkups.

How often should I breastfeed my newborn?

Newborns typically feed 8-12 times per day (every 2-3 hours). Feed on demand whenever baby shows hunger cues like rooting, sucking on hands, or fussing. Don't watch the clock—watch your baby.

Is breastfeeding supposed to hurt?

Initial tenderness in the first week is common, but breastfeeding should not be painful. Pain usually indicates a latch problem. See a lactation consultant if you experience ongoing pain, cracked nipples, or bleeding.

Breastfeeding Guide

Breastfeeding is natural, but it's also a learned skill for both you and baby. Give yourself grace as you learn together.

1. Benefits of Breastfeeding

The AAP and WHO recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, then continued breastfeeding with complementary foods until age 2 or beyond.

For Baby:

Perfect nutrition that changes with baby's needs
Antibodies that protect against infections
Lower risk of SIDS, allergies, obesity, and diabetes
Promotes bonding and emotional security

For Mom:

Helps uterus contract after birth
Burns extra calories (helps with weight loss)
Lower risk of breast and ovarian cancer
Convenient and cost-effective

2. Getting a Good Latch

A proper latch is the foundation of successful breastfeeding. Signs of a good latch:

Wide mouth: Baby's mouth opens wide like a yawn
Deep latch: Baby takes in the entire nipple plus most of the areola
Lips flanged: Both lips turned outward like fish lips
Chin touching breast: Baby's chin presses into the breast
Nose free: Baby can breathe, nose is not pressed into breast
Audible swallowing: You hear "kuh" sounds as baby swallows

If it hurts: Break the latch by inserting your pinky into the corner of baby's mouth, and try again. Pain indicates the latch needs adjustment.

3. Breastfeeding Positions

Cradle Hold

Classic position: baby lies across your lap, tummy to tummy. Support baby's head in the crook of your elbow on the same side as the nursing breast.

Cross-Cradle Hold

Similar to cradle hold, but support baby's head with the opposite hand. Great for newborns and achieving a deep latch.

Football Hold (Clutch)

Baby tucked under your arm like a football, feet pointing toward your back. Excellent after C-section or for large breasts.

Side-Lying

Both you and baby lie on your sides facing each other. Perfect for nighttime feeding and recovery from birth.

Laid-Back (Biological Nurturing)

Recline comfortably and let baby lie on your chest, using instincts to find the breast. Great for skin-to-skin bonding.

4. How Often and How Long

Newborns: 8-12 times per day (every 2-3 hours)
Let baby lead: Feed on demand when you see hunger cues
Duration: 10-20 minutes per breast; let baby finish one side before offering the other
Night feeds: Normal and necessary for milk supply; newborns need to eat at night

Hunger Cues to Watch For:

Rooting (turning head, opening mouth)
Sucking on hands or fists
Lip smacking
Fussing (crying is a late hunger cue)

5. Is Baby Getting Enough?

You can't measure breast milk, but these signs indicate adequate intake:

Wet diapers: 6+ wet diapers per day after day 4
Stools: 3-4 yellow, seedy stools daily in first month
Weight gain: Regains birth weight by 2 weeks, gains 5-7 oz per week
Contentment: Baby seems satisfied after feeding
Breast changes: Breasts feel softer after feeding

6. Common Challenges & Solutions

Sore Nipples

Usually caused by poor latch—get help adjusting position
Apply expressed breast milk to nipples after feeding
Use lanolin cream or hydrogel pads
Air dry nipples after feeding

Engorgement

Breasts become hard, swollen, and painful
Feed frequently or pump to relieve pressure
Apply cold compresses between feedings
Warm compress before feeding helps milk flow

Clogged Ducts

Hard, tender lump in breast
Massage toward nipple while feeding
Apply heat before nursing
Empty breast completely each feeding

Mastitis

Breast infection: red, hot area with flu-like symptoms
Continue nursing—it helps clear the infection
See doctor immediately; antibiotics may be needed

Low Supply Concerns

Often perceived, not actual low supply
Increase frequency of feeding
Ensure proper latch
Stay hydrated and eat well
Consult a lactation consultant if concerned

7. When to Get Help

See a lactation consultant (IBCLC) if:

Persistent pain during or after feeding
Cracked, bleeding, or blistered nipples
Baby isn't gaining weight
Baby has fewer wet/dirty diapers than expected
You feel like you're not making enough milk
Baby has difficulty latching

Many hospitals have lactation consultants, or you can find one through ILCA.org.

Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), World Health Organization (WHO), La Leche League International