Starting your breastfeeding journey comes with a lot of questions, and that is completely normal. Whether you are still pregnant and planning ahead or a few weeks postpartum and figuring things out as you go, having reliable answers makes a real difference. Below, our Storkpump IBCLCs break down the most common questions new mothers ask about breastfeeding, pumping, and milk supply.
When Should I See a Lactation Consultant?
Earlier than you might think. Scheduling a visit with an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) while you are still pregnant gives you the opportunity to get questions answered before baby arrives and to build a feeding plan that aligns with your goals. Having that foundation in place can make the early days feel a lot less overwhelming.
If you did not connect with an IBCLC before birth, it is never too late. Reach out to a Storkpump IBCLC anytime at askanIBCLC@storkpump.com. We can help you with a personalized plan of care and connect with local breastfeeding resources.
How Do I Know My Baby Is Getting Enough Milk?
This is one of the most common concerns among new mothers, and the good news is there are clear, observable signs to look for. According to the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, a well-fed baby will typically show the following:
Diaper output by day:
- Day 1: At least 1 wet and 1 dirty diaper (dark, meconium)
- Day 2: At least 2 wet and 1 dirty diaper (still dark, transitioning)
- Day 3: At least 3 wet and 3 dirty diapers (starts to lighten)
- Day 4: At least 4 wet and 3-4 dirty diapers (transitioning to yellow)
- Day 5 through 4 weeks: At least 6 wet and 3 or more dirty diapers (yellow, seedy and larger than a quarter)
Other positive signs:
- Feeding at least 8 times in every 24-hour period
- Audible soft swallowing during feedings
- Steady weight gain and staying on their growth curve
- Back to birth weight by around 2 weeks of age
- Breasts feeling lighter and softer after each feeding
- No nipple pain, damage, or clogged ducts
If you have concerns about your baby's intake, a weight check with your pediatrician or a feeding assessment with an IBCLC can give you confidence to help you meet your breastfeeding goals.
How Can I Increase My Milk Supply?
Before making changes to your routine, it is worth confirming whether a supply increase is actually needed. Many mothers experience what is called perceived low milk supply, where they feel they are not producing enough when their baby is actually getting exactly what they need. If your baby is gaining weight well and producing adequate wet and dirty diapers, your supply is likely right on track.
If after checking those signs you do determine your supply needs a boost, the most effective approach is to remove milk more frequently. For moms who are nursing, adding one to two 15-20-minute pump sessions per day using a hospital strength breast pump can make a meaningful difference. For those who are pumping part-time or exclusively, make sure your flange size is correct and that your pump has adequate suction for your needs.
Adding a few minutes of hand expression after nursing or pumping sessions is another research-supported way to increase output. If supply challenges continue even after increasing how often milk is removed, working with an IBCLC to identify the root cause is the most reliable next step.
Sources
AAP / HealthyChildren.org American Academy of Pediatrics. (2025, January 13). How to tell if your breastfed baby is getting enough milk. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/breastfeeding/Pages/How-to-Tell-if-Baby-is-Getting-Enough-Milk.aspx
ABM Clinical Protocol #2 Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Protocol Committee. (2014). ABM clinical protocol #2: Guidelines for hospital discharge of the breastfeeding term newborn and mother: "The going home protocol," revised 2014. Breastfeeding Medicine, 9(1), 3–8. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3903163/
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