Keep your eyes peeled for these common signs of low milk supply:
Stalled weight gain. Babies normally lose up to 10 percent of their birth weight in the first few days, but they should regain that by the time they hit the two-week mark. If baby struggles to put those pounds back on, low supply may be an issue. “It’s important to know that newborn weight charts are based on standards set from formula-fed babies, who may gain weight faster than breastfed babies because the fat content in formula is higher and constant at every feeding,” Page says. “The most important thing is that babies are continuing to grow, even if slowly.” On average, a well-fed baby gains four to seven ounces a week.
Fewer dirty diapers. During baby’s first several days, they should wet the same number of diapers as their age in days. So a 2-day-old will dirty two diapers. Starting around day 5, “a baby who is well fed should have at least two to five dirty diapers with yellow poop and at least four to six wet diapers with clear urine,” says Leigh Anne O’Connor, IBCLC, BA, LLL, a board-certified lactation consultant in New York City. Take a peek inside: If the urine is light yellow or colorless and their poop is big, seedy and mustard-colored, they’re likely getting enough milk.
Decrease in baby activity. “Babies who aren’t getting enough to eat are lethargic,” Page says. “They may not wake as often or be as active when they wake. They also look thin, losing that chubby baby look as their body uses the energy from their stored fat to power the brain, adrenal glands and more.” Trust your parental instincts on this one.