How to Know If Breastfeeding Is Going Well in the First Week
The first week of breastfeeding can feel like a whirlwind—your body is adjusting, your baby is learning to nurse, and you’re trying to figure out if everything is going as it should. Having a guide that shows you how to know if breastfeeding is going well in the first week is invaluable. If you’re wondering how to know if your baby is getting enough milk or if their latch is right, you’re not alone.
The good news is that there are clear signs to help you determine if breastfeeding is going well. This guide will walk you through what to look for and when to reach out for help, so you can navigate the early days with confidence.
Quick Signs Breastfeeding Is Going Well
Here’s quick checklist of what to look for:
1. Diaper Output: A Reliable Indicator of Milk Intake
One of the simplest ways to know if your baby is getting enough milk is by tracking their diaper output.
- Day 1-2: 1-2 wet diapers and meconium (black, tarry stools).
- Day 3-4: 3-4 wet diapers and stools turning greenish-yellow.
- Day 5 and Beyond: At least 6 wet diapers and 3 dirty diapers daily, with mustard-yellow, seedy stools.
💡 Tip: If diapers don’t meet these benchmarks, consider reaching out for breastfeeding help. Early intervention can make a big difference.
2. Baby’s Weight: What’s Normal in the First Week?
It’s common for babies to lose a bit of weight after birth, but knowing what’s normal can help you gauge whether breastfeeding is effective.
- Typical Weight Loss: Babies often lose 7-10% of their birth weight in the first few days.
- Regaining Weight: By 10-14 days, most babies should return to their birth weight.
If your baby’s weight gain is slower than expected, or if they’re losing more than 10%, it may be time to check in with a lactation consultant to assess their latch and milk transfer.
3. A Satisfied Baby: Signs Your Baby Is Content After Feeding
After a good feeding session, your baby will likely show these signs of satisfaction:
- Relaxed posture with unclenched fists.
- Falling asleep or appearing calm and content.
- No immediate hunger cues like rooting or sucking on hands.
💡 Note: If your baby seems fussy shortly after feeds, it may be related to milk flow, latch, or another issue worth exploring.
4. Latch and Milk Transfer: What to Look For
A proper latch is essential for effective breastfeeding and milk transfer.
Signs of a Good Latch:
- Baby’s mouth covers most of the areola, not just the nipple.
- Lips are flanged outward, like a fish.
- No clicking or smacking sounds during feeding.
Milk Transfer Cues:
- Baby sucks rhythmically with audible swallowing.
- Breasts feel softer and lighter after feeding.
💡 Tip: If you’re unsure about your baby’s latch or milk transfer, a lactation consultant can provide expert guidance.
5. Your Comfort: Breastfeeding Shouldn’t Hurt
While some tenderness is normal in the early days, sharp pain or significant discomfort isn’t.
What’s Normal:
- Initial sensitivity during the first few seconds of latching.
- A gentle tugging or pulling sensation as baby nurses.
What’s Not:
- Persistent pain, cracked nipples, or bleeding.
- Engorgement that doesn’t improve after feeding.
💡 Reminder: Pain is a sign something may need adjustment. Early help can prevent long-term issues.
When to Seek Help
If you notice any of these signs, it’s worth reaching out for breastfeeding support:
- Baby is not meeting diaper output benchmarks.
- Weight loss exceeds 10% or they’re not gaining by Day 10-14.
- Persistent pain or discomfort during breastfeeding.
- Baby seems constantly hungry or struggles to latch.
💡 Click here to connect with a lactation consultant and get expert breastfeeding support.
Final Thoughts: Trust the Signs, Trust Yourself
Breastfeeding is a journey that you and your baby learn together. By understanding the signs of effective feeding, you can feel more confident in those early days. Remember, every mom and baby are unique, and it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.
Explore more breastfeeding tips, resources, and support at IBCLC.com—your trusted source for expert guidance.
We Asked our Audience What Their Top Questions Were Related to The First Week and Put Together this FAQ:
1. How often should I feed my baby in the first week?
Newborns typically feed 8–12 times in 24 hours. Feeding on demand—whenever your baby shows hunger cues like rooting or sucking on their hands—is the best way to establish milk supply and ensure your baby is getting enough.
2. Is it normal for breastfeeding to hurt in the first week?
Some tenderness is normal as your nipples adjust to breastfeeding, but persistent pain, cracked nipples, or bleeding are signs something may be wrong. A shallow latch is a common culprit. Reach out to a lactation consultant if you experience pain.
3. How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?
Key signs include:
- At least 6 wet diapers and 3 dirty diapers daily by Day 5.
- Baby seems calm and satisfied after feeding.
- Baby regains their birth weight by 10–14 days.
If you’re unsure, check in with a lactation consultant for guidance.
4. My baby falls asleep at the breast. Is that okay?
It’s normal for newborns to get sleepy during feeds, especially in the early days. To keep your baby actively feeding:
- Gently massage their back or feet.
- Use breast compressions to encourage milk flow.
- Make sure they’re latching deeply.
5. My baby seems hungry all the time. Is that normal?
Cluster feeding—frequent feeding sessions close together—is common, especially during growth spurts. It doesn’t necessarily mean you’re not producing enough milk. As long as your baby’s weight gain and diaper output are on track, this is likely normal behavior.
6. Should I pump in the first week?
Pumping isn’t typically necessary if your baby is nursing well and your milk supply is on track. However, if you’re separated from your baby (e.g., NICU stay) or experiencing engorgement, pumping can help maintain supply and relieve discomfort.
7. What should I do if my baby isn’t latching well?
If your baby struggles to latch:
- Try different breastfeeding positions, like the football hold or laid-back nursing.
- Check for common issues like tongue tie or lip tie.
- Reach out to a lactation consultant to get hands-on help or advice.
8. When should I seek professional help?
Contact a lactation consultant if:
- Baby isn’t meeting diaper output milestones.
- Baby is losing more than 10% of their birth weight.
- You experience pain, cracked nipples, or engorgement that doesn’t improve.
- Baby is constantly fussy or seems unsatisfied after feeds.
💡 Click here to find a lactation consultant near you.
9. How can I tell if my baby is latched correctly?
A good latch should feel like gentle tugging, not sharp pain. Signs of a good latch include:
- Baby’s lips flanged outward, like a fish.
- Most of the areola (not just the nipple) in baby’s mouth.
- Rhythmic sucking with pauses for swallowing.
10. What if breastfeeding doesn’t work out?
If breastfeeding isn’t going as planned, remember that every drop of breast milk is beneficial. Combination feeding or pumping can be great options. What matters most is that you and your baby are healthy and supported.
