Encouraging New Mothers to Breastfeed: Signs of a Good Feeding

Breastfeeding can take time to learn—for both you and your baby. Every feeding is an opportunity to learn your baby’s cues, build confidence, and find what works best for you both.

One of the most common questions new mothers ask is:

“How do I know if my baby is getting enough?”

Here are some signs that your baby is having a good feeding:

 Signs of a Good Feeding

☐ Baby nurses 8 or more times in 24 hours

☐ Baby has consistent sucking with only brief pauses

☐ You may hear swallowing after your milk comes in

☐ Your breasts may feel softer after feeding

☐ Baby has age-appropriate wet diapers and several stools each day

 Understanding Diaper Output

A helpful pattern to watch for is:

Day 1: 1 wet diaper

Day 2: 2 wet diapers

Day 3: 3 wet diapers

Day 4 and onward: 6 wet diapers and several stools each day

 What Does a Good Latch Look Like?

A comfortable, effective latch may include:

 A deep latch Baby's upper and lower lips flanged outward Most of the areola in baby's mouth with an asymmetrical latch Initial latch-on discomfort that subsides quickly Visible movement around baby's temples/jaw during sucking

 When Should You Contact a Lactation Consultant?

You don't have to wait until breastfeeding feels overwhelming.

Consider reaching out for lactation support if your baby:

• Is jaundiced•

Refuses to latch

• Is not gaining weight quickly

• Is gaining weight very quickly

• Cries frequently or seems very fussy

• Feeds “all of the time”

• Was premature or late preterm

• Spits up frequently

You can also seek support if you:

• Have flat or inverted nipples

• Have sore nipples or breast engorgement

• Have concerns about low milk supply

• Experience mastitis

• Are returning to work

• Need help choosing a breast pump

• Need guidance about medications while breastfeeding

• Are experiencing stress around feedings

• Are receiving conflicting advice or discouragement

• Are ill or preparing for surgery

• Want to breastfeed an adopted baby

Most importantly, asking for help is not a sign that you're failing. It's a sign that you're taking care of yourself and your baby. 

At Nativity & Grace Health Wellness LLC, we believe mothers deserve compassionate education, encouragement, and support as they navigate pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, and postpartum life.

 Support. Educate. Empower.