Discovering the Secrets of Successful Breastfeeding in the Initial Weeks
Starting the breastfeeding journey brings a mix of wonderful moments and expected hurdles, especially during those first few weeks after your baby arrives. Today, we're sharing three key signs that show your breastfeeding adventure is kicking off well, along with some extra hints to watch out for.
1. Embrace the Feeding Frenzy: During those initial weeks, it's entirely normal for newborns to demand nursing frequently (8-12 times daily). The frequency of feeding plays a pivotal role in establishing your milk supply while ensuring your little one receives the essential nutrition they need.
Why It's Important: Newborns have petite stomachs, necessitating small, frequent feedings to satiate their hunger pangs and foster growth. These regular nursing sessions also prompt your body to produce more milk.
Signs to Observe: Stay alert to your baby's hunger signals, like rooting, hand-sucking, or adorable smacking sounds (crying is a late hunger cue.) If your baby feeds frequently and appears attentive and animated during these moments, it's a promising indication that they're receiving the nourishment required.
2. Embracing the Sounds of Success: A successful breastfeeding journey thrives on a solid latch and active swallowing. Listening for those gentle swallowing noises (kuh) and observing your baby's behavior while feeding offer valuable insights into the breastfeeding experience.
Why It’s Important: When your baby latches correctly and actively sucks, the soft sounds of swallowing (kuh) should echo. This signifies that your little one is effectively drawing milk from your breast.
Signs to Observe: Keep an eye out for signs of a good latch – your baby's mouth should encompass a significant portion of the bottom part of your areola with lips flanged neutral on the breast. Hearing those swallowing noises (kuh) and witnessing your baby's throat movements are strong indicators of successful feeding.
3. Tracking Wet and Dirty Diapers: Monitoring your baby's diaper activity stands as one of the simplest methods to gauge their milk intake. Within the first week, an increase in both wet and soiled diapers should be noticeable.
Why It's Important: By day 5, anticipate at least 6-8 wet diapers and several dirty ones daily. This output serves as a robust indication that your baby is receiving the necessary hydration and nourishment.
Signs to Observe: A well-nourished baby typically produces pale yellow urine and soft, yellow stools. Any decrease in diaper output or failure to meet these benchmarks may warrant a consultation with a healthcare provider.
Additional Clues to Keep in Mind
Latch: A comfortable latch plays a crucial role in successful breastfeeding. A proper latch should feel like a gentle tug, free of pain. Discomfort may hint at an improper latch.
Why It's Important: A correct latch not only enhances feeding efficiency but also mitigates issues like nipple discomfort and damage.
Weight Gain: A reliable gauge of successful breastfeeding, regular weight checks aid in monitoring your baby's growth and milk intake. While most newborns may shed a small percentage of their birth weight initially, regaining it around two weeks is expected, followed by a consistent gain of about 5-7 ounces weekly.
Why It’s Important: Tracking weight variations ensures your baby is thriving and well-fed.
BUT, wait! Just a heads up - Good weight gain isn't the be-all and end-all when it comes to breastfeeding success. Even if your baby is packing on the pounds, there might be some sneaky issues lurking beneath the surface that could pop up once your milk production settles around 6-12 weeks. Basically, if your baby is gaining weight like a champ but is still feeling gassy, bloated, cranky, and “colicky“, it might be a sign that breastfeeding isn't going as smoothly as you'd hoped and that a little latch assistance could be in order.
In Closing
By focusing on these three pivotal indicators – frequent feedings, active swallowing cues, and diaper activity – you can stride forward with confidence knowing your breastfeeding journey is off to a promising start. Additionally, monitoring weight gain and ensuring a comfortable latch will further aid in evaluating your breastfeeding success. Remember, each mother-baby duo is unique, and seeking assistance if any concerns arise is completely normal. Trust your instincts and savor the exquisite bonding moments that breastfeeding bestows!
If you find yourself with any queries or worries regarding how breastfeeding is progressing, feel free to get in touch with an IBCLC.
