Even if you are well-rested, maintaining a balanced diet and your baby seems to be thriving, lactation difficulties can still arise. It is not just about the basics. There are numerous factors influencing milk production that go beyond the obvious.
Various factors can impact milk supply, such as the amount of sleep a mom gets, her diet and nutrition, mental well-being, age, whether it is her first or fifth child, her desire to breastfeed, nursing capacity, nursing techniques and the baby’s ability to latch on properly.
Monitoring your baby’s growth is crucial when breastfeeding, as their well-being depends on it. Unfortunately, breast tissue is not transparent, making it impossible to gauge how much milk your baby is consuming. However, there are alternative methods to assess your baby’s nutritional intake.
During the first week of life, your baby receives colostrum before your milk comes in. This substance is rich in antibodies, aiding in the development of the immune system and helping the baby pass their first stool, known as meconium. Your baby’s stool transitioning from black and tarry to a mustard yellow, watery consistency is a positive sign of proper feeding.
Within 24 – 48 hours, your baby should have wet diapers, increasing to two or three per day. While breastfeeding, listen for a rhythmic pattern of “suck, suck, suck, swallow” without any clicking noises, which could indicate improper latching. If you notice clicking, unlatch and reattach your baby. If the issue persists, consult your pediatrician.
Aim for 6 – 8 wet diapers and at least three stools daily in the following weeks. Clear urine, increased alertness and steady weight gain are positive signs of healthy growth. Any deviation from these growth indicators for two consecutive days should be reported to your pediatrician.
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