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Breast fullness is not a good gauge of milk supply. By four weeks or so, most mothers no longer feel full, even with lots of milk. |
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By Nancy Mohrbacher, IBCLC, Ameda Products
Co-author of Breastfeeding Made Simple and The Breastfeeding Answer Book |
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| It is exciting to finally meet your baby! Do you wonder how breastfeeding works during the first few days? Here are the basics from birth to Day 4. |
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| FUN FACTS |
- A newborn's stomach is as small as a marble.
- At birth, you have just the right amount of milk to fill it.
- Your breasts are never empty.
- When breastfeeding is going well, babies generally should do better without water and formula.
- Lots of breastfeeding brings in more milk faster.
- Lots of breastfeeding helps prevent engorged breasts.
- Typically, one mother can make enough milk for twins, triplets, and more.
- Keep your baby's skin touching yours. Feedings go better, and you make more milk.
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| WHAT TO EXPECT |
- Lots of breastfeeding.
- Your nipple may feel tender for the first minute or two then get better.
- If your baby fusses, you can offer each breast more than once.
- Expect 1-2 wet diapers each day and black stools.
- Up to 10% weight loss by Day 4 is okay.
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| THINGS TO LEARN |
- Practice breastfeeding lying down, so you can feed and rest.
- Help your baby take the breast deep in her mouth so feeding feels good. (For more on this, see "Latch On.") If it hurts, ask for help.
- Make sure your baby feeds at least 8 times each day. Feedings may be bunched together. Wake if needed.
- Find out where you can get breastfeeding help.
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| SOME REASONS TO SEEK HELP IN THE EARLY DAYS |
- If breastfeeding hurts the whole time or hurts a lot.
- If your baby loses more than 10% of birth weight.
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To find a board-certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) near you, go to "Find a Lactation Consultant" on www.ilca.org. |
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| This is general information and does not replace the advice of your physician or healthcare provider. If you have a problem you cannot solve quickly, seek help right away. |
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Every baby is different, and your baby may not be average.
If in doubt, contact your physician or other healthcare provider. |
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