Signs Your Baby Is Getting Enough Breastmilk (And When to Seek Help)
- havenplacedoulas
- Mar 28
- 3 min read
Mama, I see you. I see you watching your little one nurse, wondering, “Are they getting enough? Am I making enough milk?”
First of all - you are not alone. Almost every breastfeeding mama has had this worry at some point. You love your baby, and you just want to make sure they’re nourished, growing, and thriving. But let’s be real - breastfeeding doesn’t come with a built-in milk gauge (wouldn’t that be nice?).
So, what are the signs your baby is getting enough breastmilk? Let’s break it down together.
1. Wet Diapers: The Telltale Sign
If your baby is peeing, they’re drinking. Simple as that.
Day 1 – At least one wet diaper
Day 2 – At least two wet diapers
Day 3 – At least three wet diapers
Day 4 – At least four wet diapers (poop should start looking yellowish now)
Day 5 & Beyond – Your baby should have six to eight wet diapers every 24 hours.
If your baby is hitting these diaper counts, your milk is flowing just fine.
2. Poop Watch: What’s Normal?
Ah, newborn poop - welcome to your new favorite conversation topic. In the first few weeks, your baby should be pooping at least three times a day.
First days: Black, tarry meconium
Next few days: Greenish, then turning yellow
By week 1: Soft, seedy, yellow stools
If your baby’s poop is changing like this, it means they’re getting plenty of milk. (And yes, you will definitely become a poop detective.)
3. Weight Gain: The Growth Check
Most babies lose a little weight after birth (totally normal), but by day 10-14, they should be back up to their birth weight.
Expect your baby to gain 5-8 ounces per week for the first few months.
By 5 months, their weight should be about double their birth weight.
Regular pediatrician visits will help you track this, but if your baby is gaining steadily—you’re doing great.
4. You Hear Swallowing (And See That Little Jaw Moving!)
Your baby will start with quick, fast sucks to get the milk flowing, then settle into slow, deep sucks with pauses - that’s when they’re swallowing. Listen closely. That tiny gulp sound? Music to a breastfeeding mama’s ears.
But if your baby isn’t swallowing much, falls asleep quickly, or seems frustrated at the breast, it might be time to check in with a lactation consultant.
5. Baby Feeds Regularly & Seems Content Afterward
Newborns eat a lot. In the first two months, your baby should be nursing about 10 to 12 times in 24 hours.
Each session should last about 20 to 45 minutes - long enough for them to get a good feed.
After nursing, they should seem satisfied - not rooting for more or crying out of hunger.
As they get older, feeds will become shorter but more efficient.
If your baby is constantly fussy, feeding for hours, or not seeming satisfied, it’s worth checking in with a pro.
What Can You Do to Keep Up Your Milk Supply?
You got this, mama. But if you’re worried about milk production, here are a few things that help:
Feed on demand - watch for hunger cues (rooting, sucking hands).
Make sure baby has a deep latch - painful nursing usually means a shallow latch.
Stay hydrated & eat well - your body needs fuel to make milk
Take care of yourself - stress and exhaustion can impact supply.
And most importantly? Ask for help when you need it.
When to Reach Out for Support
If you’re feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or just want some reassurance—that’s what lactation consultants and postpartum doulas are for.
If your baby isn’t gaining weight
If nursing is painful
If your baby is super fussy after feeds
If you’re feeling lost and need guidance
You don’t have to figure this out alone.
If you’re in Boston or anywhere in Massachusetts, Haven Place Doulas is here for you. Whether you need help with breastfeeding, newborn care, or just someone to listen, we’ve got your back.
You are doing an amazing job, mama. Keep going, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need support. You don’t have to do this alone. 💜
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