1. Your baby nurses at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours, or every 2 to 3 hours. Your baby may be fussy once or twice a day. At these times, he or she wants to nurse often for several hours before seeming full. This is called cluster feeding.
2. Your baby wets at least 6 cloth or 5 disposable diapers and has at least 1 bowel movement in 24 hours. This
occurs by 1 week of age.
3. You can hear your baby swallow milk while nursing or you can feel your baby swallow when lightly touching his or her throat.
4. Your breasts seem softer after nursing.

5. Your baby gains 4 to 7 ounces a week after the first week. There is no need to weigh your baby at home—your baby’s doctor will do this for you. You may notice that your baby has outgrown his or her clothing.

There are some factors which can cause your milk supply to decrease:
1. Your baby feeds fewer than 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. Milk production is affected by how well the breast is drained.
2. Your baby has a very weak suck, or has an improper latch.
3. Giving bottles of formula or water after nursing. Most babies will suck on a bottle after nursing. This just means they need to suck. It does not mean they are still hungry. Babies cry or fuss for many reasons, such as being tired, bored, wet, hot, or cold.
4. Giving solid foods too early and/or before you breast feed. Most babies do not need solid foods for the first 6
months if they are breast feeding 8 to 12 times a day.
5. Smoking can cause a decreased milk supply and interfere with the letdown reflex. Here are some things you should do:
• Try to quit or cut down.
• Smoke after nursing, not before.
• Don’t smoke in the same room with your baby.

6. Beginning birth control pills too soon can decrease your milk supply. Wait at least 6 weeks before taking birth control pills, and then use ONLY the minipill (Progestin). If you still notice a decrease in your milk supply, talk to your doctor about other birth control options. Other medications may also affect milk supply. Check with your doctor.
7. Mothers who are exhausted may notice a decrease in milk supply. To keep yourself from getting too tired:
• Sleep or relax when your baby sleeps.
• Eat a balanced diet that includes highprotein
foods.
• Drink to thirst and so that your urine
is pale yellow in color. Both under
and excessive over hydration can
decrease milk supply.
• Take an iron supplement if your
health care provider says you are
anemic.
• Talk with your doctor or nurse midwife
about the need for vitamin
supplements.
• Accept help when it is offered.
8. Use nipple shields and pacifiers with caution.
9. A breast flange that is too small or too large in size can hurt your milk supply.