To find out if the baby is breastfeeding enough, the mother or caregiver should observe some signs listed below, and when necessary, should contact the baby's pediatrician:
- If the baby wets at least 6 diapers in a 24-hour period (diaper test);
- If the urine is not too yellow and with a strong odor;
- If the stool is very hard and dry;
- If the baby does not seem to be satisfied after the feeding and continues to cry;
- If the baby wants to breastfeed very often and spend time on each breast;
- If the baby refuses to breastfeed.
The diaper test should not be done if the baby is receiving other liquids or foods other than breast milk and in cases of diarrhea dehydration.
A healthy child is smart and active and has good body growth. If the baby is not developing enough, according to the expected pattern of development, this is another indication that he is not breastfeeding enough and that, in these cases, it may be necessary to give a feed supplement after the feedings that must be prescribed by the doctor.
