When breastfeeding it can be difficult to know if your baby is getting enough milk, it is important to remember your baby only has a little tummy, and so will want frequent breastfeeds, breast milk is perfectly designed to meet all your baby’s needs.
In the first 4-6 weeks your baby should have 6-8 heavy wet nappies and at least 2 dirty nappies with soft runny yellow stools in a 24 hour period. After 4-6 weeks as breastfeeding is more established you may find the stool output changes as breastfed babies can go a few days without passing a stool.
Being aware of your baby swallowing will also show you they are feeding well, you may see and hear them swallowing. if your baby is waking frequently to come to the breast 8-12 times in 24 hours, they will also be alert and active when feeding.
Your baby should come off the breast spontaneously following a feed and be calm and content. Remember there is never a wrong time to offer your baby the breast, you cannot over feed an exclusively breast fed baby
If you are unsure how heavy a wet nappy should be get a clean nappy and put 2-4 tablespoons of water in it, this will help you to recognise a heavy nappy.
Who can help?
If you’re worried about your child, a health professional in our team will be able to offer advice and support. You can Call Us on 0300 029 50 50 or Text Us on 07520 649887 to start a conversation. **Monday to Friday 9.30am - 4.30pm excluding bank holidays**
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Delivering excellence in Children and Young People’s Services:
a partnership between Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust and
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust.
Funded by Cambridgeshire County Council and Peterborough City Council