Breastfeeding FAQs: How Much and How Often
Whether you're a new mom or a seasoned parenting pro,
six or more wet diapers per day, with clear or very pale urine. If you see orange crystals in a wet diaper, contact your baby's doctor - these can be a sign of inadequate fluid intake or latched on correctly from the beginning to ensure the most productive feeding possible. It's important that your baby nurses with a wide-open mouth and takes as much as possible of your areola in his or her mouth (not just the tip of the nipple).
But be sure to call your child's doctor if you're concerned about the length of your baby's feedings - whether they seem too short or too long.
How often should I alternate breasts?
To keep up your milk supply in both breasts - and prevent painful engorgement in one - it's important to alternate breasts and try to give each one the same amount of nursing time throughout the day. Again, that amount of time differs for every baby and every woman - some babies may be satisfied after 5 minutes on each breast, others may need 10 or even 15 minutes on each side.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends switching breasts during each feeding and alternating which breast you offer first for each feeding. Can't remember on which breast your baby last nursed? Some women find it helpful to attach a subtle reminder - a safety pin or small ribbon - to their bra straps indicating which breast they last nursed on so they'll know to start with that breast at the next feeding.
However, some lactation specialists are now recommending just nursing on one breast per feeding and switching breasts from one feed to the next. This allows the baby to get more of the hind-milk, which is fattier. (Containing protein, vitamins, and water, foremilk comes at a feeding's beginning. Hind-milk comes later and has higher fat levels, which aids in an infant's weight gain.)
Some recent information also suggests that timed feedings can sometimes create difficulties early on. Why? Because if you take your baby off the first breast after 10 minutes, he or she may not latch onto the other breast as well and, subsequently, won't get what he or she needs.
But your baby may seem to prefer both breasts with each feeding and may be doing well. Or, your little one may like to nurse on just one breast with each feeding. Whichever way you choose, it's important for you to do whatever works and is the most comfortable for you and your baby.
How often should I burp my baby during feedings?
Let your baby breastfeed at one breast then switch him or her to the other side. Try Barbara P. Homeier, MD
Date reviewed: August 2005