The Number 1 Question Every Mom Asks about Breastfeeding

By: Maureen Mills, RN, IBCLC
We have seen many new moms riddled with worry; we often get asked by new moms “Do I have enough milk for my baby?”
For 99.9% of the Mom’s I can confidently answer, YES!!
Having enough milk is a real and natural concern and very natural for every mom – so it’s a question I never mind answering.
When you feed your baby with a bottle it’s so easy to see how many ounces of milk the baby is getting.  Your body is amazing while breastfeeding and has the perfect amount of food for your baby.  You don’t need to know how many ounces per feed your baby is taking in while breastfeeding – your baby and your body give you signs when he or she is full vs. how many ounces he or she drank.  Some of the signs include:

  • Your baby gulps and swallows while you are nursing
  • Your breasts are softer after the feeding
  • You baby acts satisfied after each feeding
  • Your baby has a good latch on your breast don’t feel any pain

As Pediatricians we focus on your baby’s weight in the early days after birth – but for good reason.  In the womb your baby has an umbilical cord that provides nutrition 24 hours/day.  We know a newborn need to feed every 2-3 hours but not every baby is aware of when they are hungry vs full.  Some babies are very sleepy and fall asleep at the breast after just a little milk – tricking you into thinking they are full but they may not be.  Is doesn’t take long for babies to understand what a full tummy feels like but it may take some time, practice, patience and even some help from a lactation specialist.
There are very few conditions where the mom’s body is unable to provide a full milk supply.  Some of these reasons can include:

  • Thyroid issues
  • Previous breast surgeries
  • Insufficient glandular tissue
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Stress

At Potomac Pediatrics we are dedicated to helping our moms be successful with breastfeeding.   We have a lactation team to help you.
We are here to help you if you are

  • Struggling and worried about your milk supply
  • Having any other breastfeeding issues or
  • Feeling that breastfeeding is overwhelming

Want to connect with others in your same situation?  We also have a Feeding Support Group for babies up to 6 months old.  Please come to our free group – no sign up necessary it is the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at 1pm in our Potomac Pediatrics conference room, Suite 220.  We hope to see you there!

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