We use these guidelines to help you know if your baby is getting enough during the first week of life.

• Baby should be breastfeeding at least 8-12 times in 24 hours, which is usually at least every 2-3 hours.
• Baby can take a longer stretch of sleep at night if you know you are feeding at least every 2-3 hours during the day.
• Baby content between most feedings.
• Audible swallowing heard.
• Once your milk is in (usually by day 3 or 4) your breasts should feel full before a feeding and you should notice that they are soft and comfortable after a feeding.
• By day 4 babies should have at least 4-6 wet diapers and 3 or 4 yellow bowel movements.
• If baby does not have this pattern of output you should look to increase feedings by feeding baby more often. Consult with your pediatrician if your have any questions about baby.

American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a follow up appointment with pediatrician within 72 hours after discharge from the hospital. At your visit they will weigh baby and assess for effective signs of breastfeeding. Always call your health care professional including the lactation consultants at the hospital if you have any questions.