However, how much milk does a baby actually need per day? Or maybe a lot of questions arise in the minds of mothers, is the breast milk that I give is enough for the baby? It is difficult to answer, because every baby has different needs. But even so, it does not mean that mothers cannot measure whether the breast milk given to their babies is sufficient or not. Indeed, when you are breast feeding a baby, You can’t measure how much milk you drink while breastfeeding – but you can still make sure your baby is getting enough milk. The following are signs or bases that can be used as a reference whether my baby is getting enough breast milk or not:
Is your baby fat? Gaining weight is usually the most reliable sign that your baby is getting enough food. Although most babies lose weight after birth, they will usually return to normal, in some cases the weight will return within a week or two. Your baby will be weighed at every checkup. If you are concerned about your baby’s weight, make an appointment with the doctor for your baby’s weighing schedule.
How often is your baby breastfed? Newborns are breastfed 8 to 12 times a day – every 2 or 3 hours a day. During the growing process, your baby may breastfeed more or ask to be breastfed more frequently. Rely on your body’s abilities if your baby demands more feeds. The more often your baby gets breast milk from you, the more milk you produce. The older your baby is, the more milk he will consume in a less frequency of time each time he drinks milk.
How do you feel in your chest? If your baby has started breastfeeding, you will feel a gentle pulling sensation on your chest – in addition to a pinching or biting sensation on your nipples. You will feel your chest tight or full before breastfeeding, and feel softer and empty afterward. If breastfeeding is painful, ask a specialist or lactation consultant for help.
What about your baby’s diaper? The first few days after birth, the number of wet diapers usually increases from day to day. By the fifth day after birth, you find that your baby will spend at least six wet diapers per day and three or more bowel movements per day. Baby poop will be dark and sticky in the first few days, sometimes becoming grungy, loose, and golden yellow in color.
Does your baby seem well? A baby who looks happy and satisfied after the feed and is awake and active for a while after that may be a sign that he is getting enough milk.
Trust your instincts that you know best about your baby. If you feel that something is wrong, contact your pediatrician right away – especially if your baby:
- He has not gained weight
- Do not spend at least six wet diapers per day
- Do not defecate regularly
- The color of the urine is dark yellow or orange
- Difficulty defecating because it is hard and dry
- Often fussy after breastfeeding
- Looks sleepy all the time
- Suffering from jaundice, his skin and eyes will turn yellow
- Not interested in breastfeeding
- Spitting vigorously or more than spitting in small amounts.
Remember, every baby is born unique. You may be surprised by your baby’s feeding patterns. As long as your baby is growing and developing normally, and most importantly you can ensure that their nutritional needs are met.
