Is my baby getting enough milk...?

In the early days getting to grips with feeding your baby can be a little daunting.  It’s normal to feel anxious about whether baby is getting enough milk, how often you should feed or how much to feed.   Here are some top tips which we think may help...

Breastfeeding

• Most newborns breastfeed between 8 to 12 times a day – about every 2-3 hours. Don’t worry if at first, one feed simply flows into another… it takes time to adjust to a feeding pattern
• Steady weight gain is the most reliable sign that baby is getting enough to eat. Expect baby to lose weight initially but this should be regained within 1-2 weeks.
• Once full, baby should seem relaxed and content and will come off the breast on her own.  Your breasts should feel softer and more comfortable.

 Bottle feeding

• Use slow flow teats for your newborn, this will ensure baby learns to feed at a more natural pace
• Tip bottle up so the teat fills with milk and not air
• If baby starts to wriggle, try winding before feeding again
• Warming baby’s feed may help comfort and relax her

Also, look out for the cues baby’s often give…

“I’ve had enough” – she’s disinterested in the bottle or breast, falls asleep or turns away

“More please” – she smacks her lips, cries, roots for teat or breast.

 Remember to follow your instincts… and if you have any worries then help is at hand.  Check out these websites for practical help and advice.

 For great breast feeding advice and support www.laleche.org.uk

 A handy table on how much milk baby needs in the first few days: http://www.babycentre.co.uk/baby/breastfeeding/firstfewdays/

 How to tell if your baby is feeding well:

http://www.nct.org.uk/parenting/how-can-i-tell-if-my-baby-feeding-well