How do I know if my baby has had enough while breastfeeding?

Allow your baby to nurse for as long and as often as he wants. If you feed your baby about 8–12 times a day during the first few days and they drink well, he has probably eaten enough.

Allow your baby to nurse for as long and as often as they want. For the most part, the baby determines its own feeding schedule. Some babies require a little extra stimulation for feedings. Other babies are hungrier and want to drink a lot.

If you feed your baby about 8–12 times a day during the first few days and they drink well, they have probably eaten enough.

There are three ways to know for sure:

 

  1. The baby is lively and satisfied.
  2. The baby is consistently gaining weight (note: the first few days, your baby may lose weight).
  3. Starting from day three, your baby should have at least three wet nappies a day.

 

Sometimes extra feeds are required, e.g. if the baby is jaundiced. Some babies may be drowsy and sleepy even though extra feedings are required.

 

Last edit: 27 august 2021