Are you worried about breastfeeding your baby? Let's learn exactly about milk supply!

When you become a new mother, it's normal to have questions, especially about breastfeeding. "Will my baby have enough milk?", "What if I don't have enough milk?", etc. You may be wondering the same thing. Don't worry, these are all things that new mothers face. Today, let's talk about your milk supply , or what you need to know about it.

How do I know for sure if my baby is getting enough milk?

This is the biggest problem that many mothers have. There are a few simple ways to tell if your baby is getting enough milk. The main thing is to look at your baby's nappy. If your baby is getting enough milk, you will need to change his nappy several times a day.

Frequency and manner of urination

In the first few days after birth, that is, within 24 hours, the baby may only urinate once or twice. This is because the first milk that comes, the thick milk like yolk (colostrum), is very concentrated . But after 3-4 days, you should pay attention to these things:

• The baby should wet their diaper at least 6 times a day. The urine should be light yellow or watery.
• If the baby is urinating less than that, or if the urine is dark yellow, it may mean that the baby is not getting enough fluids .
• Sometimes you may see orange crystals in your diaper. This is normal for healthy, well-fed babies and is not a big deal. However, it can sometimes be a sign that your baby is not getting enough water. If you see something like this, it is best to talk to a doctor.

How often and how to do the Kakka

In the first few days of a newborn's life, the poop is thick, tarry black. As the mother's milk starts to come in, it becomes a slightly greenish-yellow color. After 3-4 days, look for these things:

• You should have yellow, bone-like poop at least 4 times a day. Usually, babies poop after every feeding.
• But after about a month, babies poop less often. Some babies may not poop for a few days. That's normal.

Important: If you have any concerns about your baby's urine or stool, don't hesitate to talk to your family doctor or pediatrician.

Along with these things, there are a few other signs that you may be thinking that your baby is getting enough milk:

• If you drink milk about 8-12 times a day.
• If you look happy and relaxed after drinking milk.
• If you sleep well.
• If you stay alert and active while you're awake.
• If the weight is gaining properly (this is usually checked by a doctor or family health worker).

If everything is in order, you can be happy that your baby is getting enough milk. But if you still have doubts, be sure to talk to a doctor.

How can I increase my milk supply?

This is a question that many mothers ask. Your milk supply depends on how often you breastfeed or pump. Simply put, the more you breastfeed or pump, the more milk your body will produce. It's like a supply-to-demand system.

So, if you feel like your milk supply is a little low, try feeding your baby more often . Also, pumping a little after you've finished can help stimulate milk production .

Some things, such as stress, illness, and certain medications, can temporarily reduce your milk supply. But things like drinking plenty of water and eating nutritious foods can help. Also, try to set aside at least 15-30 minutes a day for yourself and relax a bit.

If your baby is under 6 months old, and you have to be away from your baby for a long time during the day (for example, if you go to work), remember to pump or express your milk by hand at least every 3 hours . This will help you maintain a good milk supply.

If you still feel like you don't have enough milk after doing all of this, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant.

Will delaying breastfeeding increase milk supply?

No, it's actually the other way around. The longer you wait to breastfeed or pump, the more likely your milk supply will decrease. This is because when your breasts are full and hard, or engorged, your brain is sent a signal that says, "I need to slow down my milk production now." So waiting for your milk to come in will only decrease your milk supply.

I'm having a lot of milk. What should I do?

While some mothers may feel like they don't have enough milk, others may think, "Oh, I'm making too much milk." Some mothers' bodies produce more milk than their babies need. Others overstimulate their breasts by pumping or expressing milk frequently during feedings.

If you also feel like your milk supply is too high, try these things:

• At the beginning of each feeding , alternate sides . That is, if you started on the right side this time, start on the left side next time.
• Let the baby suckle well on one side . Keep feeding on that side until that side is completely empty, or until the baby feels satisfied. Only offer the other side if the baby still doesn't feel full after the first side is finished.
• If possible, try to breastfeed from only one side at a time . After a while, you will find that it becomes easier to control your milk supply and the milk ejection reflex (let-down reflex).
• If your breasts are engorged and uncomfortable, express just a little milk to relieve the discomfort. Do not empty the breast completely .

If you still don't see a decrease in your milk supply after doing these things, it's best to talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant.

My baby only sucks from one side. Will this affect my milk supply?

Some babies are satisfied with just one side. Others may prefer one side. If your baby is only breastfeeding from one side and you are not uncomfortable after the feeding, you don't need to pump the other side. However, if the other side is still full, hard, and uncomfortable, you can pump or express a little milk to relieve the discomfort.

However, to maintain a good milk supply in both breasts and prevent painful engorgement, it is best to alternate breastfeeding . This can be done during the same feeding or between feedings. Remember, let your baby drink until the first side is completely empty, then switch to the other side. This is how your baby gets the first, slightly thinner milk (foremilk) and the thicker, more nutritious milk (hindmilk) that comes later.

My baby sleeps more at night. Will this affect my milk supply?

Once babies reach their birth weight and are able to sleep for longer periods of time at night, the time between nighttime feedings gradually increases.

Your baby sleeping longer at night won't hurt your breastfeeding efforts. Your growing baby will be able to get more milk during the day, so he'll be able to sleep longer at night. Your milk supply will adjust to the new routine.

However, if you wake up at night and your breasts are full of milk and hard, and your baby is sleeping well, you can express or pump a little milk to relieve the discomfort until your body gets used to the new routine.

If you prepare your milk meals according to your baby's cues, you can maintain your milk supply exactly in line with your baby's needs.

The most important things for you to remember (Take-Home Message)

• The best way to know if your baby is getting enough milk is to look at the nappy and observe your baby's behavior .
• If you want to increase your milk supply, breastfeed your baby more often or pump .
• Delaying breastfeeding will only decrease milk supply, not increase it .
• If your milk supply is too high, there are things you can do about it. Follow the right methods .
• If your baby sleeps longer at night, it won't have a big impact on your milk supply, your body will get used to it .
• Remember, every mother and every baby is different. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to seek advice from a doctor or a lactation consultant . You are not alone!

Breastfeeding is a beautiful experience, and we hope these tips will help make your journey easier!

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