The more your baby breastfeeds well, the more milk you will produce. Be assured that you can produce enough milk for your baby.
The baby’s growth is a good sign of how much milk he is getting. Normally, all babies will lose some weight during the first few days of life, usually from 7–10% of their birth weight. They usually return to their birth weight by about two weeks. The normal range of weight gain is about 155–240 grams per week (5–8 ounces per week) for the first four months. The rate of weight gain generally slows down after four months.
Other signs that breastfeeding is going well:
◆ You can hear swallowing at the breast.
◆ Your baby is content after most feedings.
◆ Your breasts feel softer after a feeding.
◆ Your baby feels heavier and is starting to fill out his clothes.
Remember that every baby grows at his own pace. Talk to your health care provider if you are concerned about your baby’s growth.
photo source: http://www.myhousecallmd.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/One-Happy-Baby.jpg
*adapted from The Breastfeeding Handbook 2010. Gov. of Newfoundland and Labrador
