How do you know your baby is getting enough milk?
You can't see how much milk your baby drinks, and that creates doubt. Fortunately three signals tell you reliably: the number of feeds a day, the number of wet nappies and the weight curve. If those three check out, your baby is getting enough. Full stop.
How often should I breastfeed?
Most babies feed 8 to 12 times a day, including at night. More often is fine too: cluster feeding (lots of short feeds close together, often in the evening) is normal behaviour and no sign of low supply. Feeding on demand, whenever your baby shows hunger cues, works better than a fixed schedule.
Wet nappies: the most reliable daily signal
What goes in must come out. From day 5 there should be at least 6 properly wet nappies a day. In the first days the rule of thumb is roughly as many wet nappies as your baby is days old. Fewer wet nappies is the first signal to feed more often and have a professional take a look.
What does not mean you have low milk supply?
Many mothers doubt themselves over signals that prove nothing: a baby who wants to feed often, crying, or breasts that feel softer than in the first weeks. All of that is part of normal breastfeeding. Look at nappies and weight, and if in doubt get support from a lactation consultant, who can often see how things are going within one feed.
