Breastfeeding In The First Few Weeks

A baby that is doing well:
has soft or loose bowel movements (stools)
during the first 2-3 days of life – 1-2 large or several small stools
after first 2-3 days – 2 or more stools in 24 hours
has pale, light coloured urine with almost no smell
in the first 3 days – 1-2 wet diapers per day (occasional red staining is normal)
as milk supply increases, usually by 4-5 days – 6 wet cloth diapers per day
is feeding well, at least 8-12 times in 24 hours
listen for quiet “caw“ sound of swallowing
is back up to birth weight by 2 to 3 weeks of age
gains 120-224 grams (4-8 oz.) per week during the first three months
Note: Wetness is easier to notice in cloth diapers. A facial tissue can be placed inside disposable diapers to help you tell if the diaper is wet.Get help if any of these signs are NOT present!
Phone your doctor or midwife if:
your baby is very sleepy and hard to wake for feedings
your nipples are sore and do not start to get better
you have fever, chills, flu symptoms, or a red painful area on your breast. If you have these signs, continue to nurse often, apply warm, wet towels to your breasts before feeding and get lots of rest.