Nursing mothers usually fret whether they produce sufficient milk for their infant or nutrition to develop. It is tough to tell. People claim to know several indications of low milk supply, although most of them are dubious.
If you are a concerned breastfeeding mother, we will tell you the authentic signs to recognize that your newborn is getting enough milk.
Signs of Low Milk Supply
Some infants can complete their feeds in only 20 minutes, while others need nearly an hour. So, what are the indicators or parameters that your baby is getting enough?
The Baby Itself Tells If It is Getting Enough Milk
Weight Gain
It is very natural for neonates to drop 5-10% of their birth weight in the first few days after birth. They should, however, return to gaining weight within a few days. Babies gain 4-7 ounces per week on average and achieve birth weight in 10 to 14 days.
If your baby has lost more than 10% of their birth weight in the first few days and yet has not started gaining weight by days 5-6 postpartum, you might have a low milk supply. Here are a few things you should try instead of getting cranky.
Wet Diapers
The number of wet diapers you see in the bin is also a sign of a baby getting enough breast milk. You need not have to worry about the low milk supply. It is usual for infants to not urinate frequently for a day or two.
Once they have enough to consume, they will pee 5-8 times per day. After a week, the number of wet diapers will rise to at least 6-8 each day.
The urine should be pale yellow. If the infant is not wetting enough diapers per day or the pee is a deeper color, you should take them to the pediatrician.
You should also be aware that newborn poop is black, tar-like, and changes to a creamy, greenish-yellow, or orange-yellow color by day 4 and a seedy appearance by around one week. A newborn should poop at least three to four times every day.
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Cheerful & Happy Baby
When the babies get the proper feed, they are calm and blissful after nursing. If you notice your baby is still fussy, this could indicate a low milk supply. Similarly, when your baby has enough feed, they release your breast themselves. Or, you may often find them falling asleep after feeding.
Your Newborn Is Dehydrated
If your baby is not peeing or pooping enough for their age, it’s a sign that they’re low on milk supply. Yet, another thing to be wary about is dehydration. Look for the following symptoms –
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If you see any of the above in your baby, it may mean the baby is dehydrated and needs immediate attention.
Others
The other interpretations, like, soft breasts after nursing and occasionally leaking breasts, may have another meaning than low milk supply.
How To Boost Milk Supply
According to a study by CDCP, about 75 percent of women stop breastfeeding within a few months of feeding their babies due to worry about low milk supply. But, they must know most women have a fine supply, and just a few need to boost the supply.
Read also: How to correct a shallow latch breastfeeding
We have jotted down the evidence-based methods to increase milk supply.
Worried About Bottle Feeding! Check This Guide: Tips For Successfully Bottle Feeding A Preemie – A Parent’s Guide.
Conclusion
Low milk production is unusual. Only some women produce insufficient milk and require a booster. As long as your baby is gaining weight and wetting enough diapers, you’re providing enough breast milk for the neonate. You can also calm your anxiety by speaking with a lactation expert.
The above precautions and remedies to follow will help you increase your milk supply, decreasing the dependency on formula supplements.