For a baby, there is no alternative to breast milk. The very first thing that a baby feeds on right after his/her birth is the breast milk, which should be given within an hour of his/her birth since a baby can properly suckle at this time. A common concern that most mothers have is whether or not their babies are getting breast milk adequately. So, it is important a mother understand if her baby is receiving the milk properly.

A few symptoms showed by the baby may help the mother understand the truth.

·        The baby makes cry.

·        The baby makes moves while in sleep.

·        The child revolves its head around.

·        Whatever the baby gets close (a finger or a piece of cloth), it starts sucking.

Upon discovery of these symptoms, mothers usually breastfeed their babies. The child itself will make the mother understand its need. The following symptoms will help mothers further to know if their babies are on breast milk adequately and properly.

Gulping with force:

As a baby has much strength to suckle after birth, the frozen milk in the mother’s breasts will easily enter the baby’s mouth with its frequent suckling. If the baby gets adequate milk, it will swallow frequently. Only when it does not receive adequate quantity of milk, it will suckle but will not swallow that much. It will keep the nipples inside the mouth for a long time and fall asleep.

Satisfaction of the baby:

A child looks happy if it gets milk properly, and if not, it will keep crying, meaning that it is hungry. However, it does not mean that it is not getting milk adequately. For the first six months after birth, a child wants breast milk after every 2-3 hours. If it wants again in less than an hour even after getting fed once, the mother should consider that the child is not getting milk adequately.

Frequency of urination:

In every 24 hours, a child usually urinates six times. If he/she does this less than six times a day, it is likely that he/she is not getting milk sufficiently. The baby’s stool also gives important indications. A healthy child leaves stools 4 times a day. On the very first day after birth, the color of the stool is a little black and sticky. On the third or fourth day, the color gets green, and on the fifth day, it turns yellow.

Weight gain:

On the first week, the baby’s weight fluctuates, which is normal. On the third and fourth day, the weight loss may be by 5% to 7%, which is normal too. However, the weight gain will start within the first 10 days after birth. If the weight loss is equal to or more than 10%, it is a matter of concern. Many mothers think their babies are not getting milk sufficiently if they hear their beloved baby crying. This is not always right. At times, a simple embracement within your breasts may stop your baby from crying. Make sure your baby is holding the nipples and areolas with mouth wide open during breastfeeding.

How many times to breastfeed your baby?

It depends on circumstances. A baby after its birth must be breastfed once. After that, the baby will show symptoms for its needs. The mother should keep her baby within her breasts as long as possible. This will help the baby form the habit of suckling properly. During the first six months, the baby should be given milk 8 to 10 times a day. On the third month, the frequency can be raised up to 12 times a day. However, you should be conscious that your baby is not breastfed for longer than two hours while asleep as babies tend to sleep much after birth.

How long each time:

With a small stomach, a baby should be given to suckle frequently but for a little each time. Many times, the baby may grow hungry even after drinking once. Then, it should be allowed to drink again. First, one breast should be suckled properly, and then another.

Up to how many days breastfeeding should be continued:

Doctors suggest that babies should be breastfed up to six months after their birth. In fact, the longer you breastfeed your baby, the better it will be for him/her. During this period, no other foods are allowed. After six months, other foods are allowed alongside breast milk. In general, a baby can be breastfed up to two years after its birth.

Breast milk contains all essential nutrients like mineral, iron and all types of vitamins which meet your baby’s demand. Breast milk is the best food for babies. With a little caution, you can have your baby get the taste and nutrients of this invaluable food.

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