(Video uploaded 08/2014)

Transcript

How do I know if my milk supply is enough?

Although it is difficult to know how much milk your baby has taken when breastfeeding, you can observe his behavior to ensure that he is getting enough milk.

When your baby gets enough milk:

• He will appear contented and satisfied
• Your breasts will be softened after breastfeeding, though you may not have this feeling in the first two or three days
• You can check on your baby's weight and excretion pattern:
  • In the first two days after birth, your baby will have at least one to two diapers a day with colourless or pale yellow urine
  • On the third and fourth day, the baby will have three heavier wet diapers per day
  • From the fifth day onwards, your breastfed baby will have at least five to six heavy wet diapers every day (similar to about three table spoon of water in a diaper)
  • On the first day after birth, your baby will pass out black or dark green meconium in his bowel movements
  • His stool will gradually change from meconium to yellowish colour in the first 5 days
  • In the first month, your baby will have bowel movements at least twice a day
  • It is normal for your baby to lose a bit of weight in the first few days after birth. By the first 1 to 2 weeks, your baby should regain the birth weight and gain weight steadily. He will gain at least half a kilogram per month in the first 4 months

If you are concerned about the baby's excretion pattern and weight gain, consult Maternal and Child Health Centres or other healthcare professionals for advice early.