Will I Have Enough Milk For My Baby?
This is a natural and real concern for most moms. You are not alone if you are wondering whether or not you will produce enough milk supply to satisfy your baby’s feeding needs, and we’re here to help!
Factors Influencing Breast Milk Supply
Breastfeeding is one of nature’s greatest miracles – your milk consistency changes based on the season and whether your baby requires more water in summer months, or more nutritious milk in colder winter months. Likewise, your body has been preparing for breastfeeding from the moment you fell pregnant and your supply is greatly determined by your baby’s feeding needs.
Signs of Healthy Feeding
You can look for the following signs to make sure that feeding is going well:
-Your baby should suck eagerly and swallow regularly.
-Your baby should naturally release your breast towards the end of a nursing session and appear relaxed and drowsy.
-Your baby’s diaper should be wet after a feed due to urine and they should have regular, soft stools.
-Your baby should also be gaining weight which can be checked during your monthly pediatrician appointment.
If you do have concerns it is always wise to check in with your health care provider who will either set your mind at ease, or give you guidance should they feel that there is reason for concern.
Top Tips for Breastfeeding
- Make sure that you are well hydrated, especially during breastfeeding sessions. A rule of thumb is to have at least one big glass of water with every single feed or expressing session to make sure that your body has enough water to help with milk production and to ensure that you don’t get dehydrated.
- You are going to be spending a significant amount of time breastfeeding so make sure that you are comfortable and supported to make breastfeeding a relaxing experience for both you and your baby.
- Make sure that you are relaxed during breastfeeding sessions as your baby can sense if you are stressed and anxious. This could result in your baby not latching properly which in turn can result in cracked nipples, insufficient feeds and engorgement.
- We highly recommend asking a lactation specialist to help you during the first couple of days to make sure that your baby latches correctly which will avoid it being a painful experience for you, and your baby not getting sufficient milk flow during a feed.
We know that breastfeeding can be stressful and that it is very time heavy, but it is such a sacred time between mom and baby. Take it all in, let the world wait. Relax, breathe and unashamedly stare at the beautiful baby you have created and just take it all in.
