Breast milk is a great source of nutrition for your baby. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization recommend exclusive breastfeeding for about the first 6 months and continued breastfeeding with complementary foods up to 2 years or longer. Breastfeeding is good for both you and your baby. Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for most babies. As your baby grows, your breast milk will change to meet his or her nutritional needs. Breastfeeding can also help protect you and your baby against some short- and long-term illnesses and diseases.
Many mothers worry about whether they can make enough milk for their baby. These signs can help you to know that your baby is getting enough:
- Your baby is breastfeeding often, 8-12 times per day (24 hours).
- You can see and hear your baby swallowing while breastfeeding.
- Your baby seems content after a feeding.
- Your baby is steadily gaining weight. It is normal for breastfed babies to lose some weight in the first week following birth, but they should be back to their birth weight by day 10-14 of life.
- Your baby has enough pees and poops throughout the day.
Breastfeeding help is available. If you see signs of a bad latch or are worried about your milk supply, get help from a healthcare or lactation support provider as soon as you can.
Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Breastfeeding https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/InfantandToddlerNutrition/breastfeeding/index.html