How to Tell If Your Baby Is Getting Enough Milk – Signs to Watch For

Many new parents worry about whether their baby is getting enough breast milk. Since you can't measure it in ounces like a bottle, you have to rely on other signs.

Here’s how to tell if your baby is feeding well:

1. Wet & Dirty Nappies

According to UNICEF, your new baby (under 6 weeks) should be having:

• At least **6 wet nappies** per day (under one week they will have less, but building up to 6)

• At least **2-3 dirty nappies** (of at least a £2 coin size).

• After 6(ish) weeks, the number of dirty nappies may start to drop off slowly - this is normal.

2. Baby’s Weight Gain

• Babies typically **regain birth weight by 2-3 weeks**.

• They should gain steadily after that, following their centile line in their red book.

• This weight gain amount may taper off around 4 months.

3. Baby’s Behaviour & Feeding Patterns

Baby should be:

• Satisfied after feeds (not constantly unsettled).

• Feeds 8-12 times in 24 hours (although occasional frequent feeding is to be expected).

• Cluster feeding in the evenings.

4. Signs During Feeds

• You hear or see swallowing (check out this great video by Lucy Webber: https://youtu.be/zI-O2Sm7p24?si=nTyV_5atox-N94M0 ).

• Baby has a deep latch, not just latching at the nipple.

5. Your Breasts Change

• Feel softer after a feed.

• May leak or tingle when baby feeds from the other side.

What to Do If You’re Concerned

If you're unsure, reach out! Speak to your midwife, health visitor or attend a local breastfeeding support service.

**Book a consultation today to get expert help!**