How Do I Know If I’m Producing Enough Breast Milk?
A Gentle Guide to Trusting Your Body (With Practical Signs to Watch For)
One of the most common worries for new breastfeeding parents is:
“Am I making enough milk?”
Your baby feeds often. Your breasts don’t feel as full as they did a few days ago. And without measurements, it’s hard to know what’s “normal.”
First, take a breath.
In most cases, your body knows exactly what to do — even if it doesn’t always feel that way.
At Neutral Nest, we believe in supporting your feeding journey with calm, clarity, and care. Here’s how to tell if your baby is getting enough milk — and when to ask for support if something feels off.
What Does “Enough” Look Like?
Breastfeeding works on supply and demand. The more your baby feeds, the more milk your body produces. But because you can’t see how much milk your baby drinks, it’s natural to worry.
Thankfully, there are clear signs that things are going well — and they have more to do with baby than your boobs.
Signs Your Baby Is Getting Enough Milk
Frequent feeding:
Especially in the early weeks, 8–12 times in 24 hours is normal
Good nappy output:
By day 5, your baby should have at least 6 wet nappies and 2 or more soft yellow poos per day
Steady weight gain:
After an initial drop, most babies regain birth weight by 2 weeks and continue gaining steadily
Alert and content after feeds:
Your baby comes off the breast looking relaxed, with a soft body and sleepy eyes
Swallowing sounds during feeding:
Listen for rhythmic gulps or swallows — a sign that milk is being transferred well
Your breasts feel softer after feeds:
They may not feel "full" like they did early on — and that’s okay
Signs You Might Need Support
If you notice any of the following, it’s a good idea to reach out to a lactation consultant, midwife, or health visitor:
> Your baby is feeding constantly but still seems unsettled
> Less than 6 wet nappies a day after day 5
> Poos stay dark or small after the first few days
> Very slow weight gain or not back to birth weight by 2–3 weeks
> Your nipples are cracked, bleeding, or feeding feels unbearable
> You rarely hear or see your baby swallowing
> Your baby is very sleepy and hard to rouse for feeds
These can all be signs of low milk transfer — which isn’t always about supply, but sometimes about latch or feeding technique. Support helps!
Common Myths (That Can Make You Doubt Yourself)
> “My baby feeds all the time — I must not have enough.”
Babies feed frequently for many reasons: growth, comfort, cluster feeding. It doesn’t always mean low supply.
> “My breasts don’t feel full anymore.”
Fullness fades as your supply regulates. Soft breasts can still make plenty of milk.
> “I don’t leak or feel a let-down.”
Not all bodies leak or tingle — and you can still have a strong milk supply.
> “I can’t pump much — I must not have milk.”
Babies are much more effective at removing milk than a pump. Pumping output ≠ supply level.
How to Support Your Milk Supply Naturally
Feed on demand, not by the clock
Offer both breasts at each feed
Skin-to-skin contact boosts oxytocin (the hormone that helps let milk down)
Avoid long gaps between feeds, especially at night
Look after yourself — rest, nourishment, and hydration make a real difference
Still unsure? You can always request a feeding assessment — there’s no shame in asking for help.
Final Thoughts
It’s completely normal to question whether you’re making enough milk — especially in the early weeks when everything feels new. But more often than not, your baby (and your body) are doing just fine.
Trust the signs, trust yourself, and know that support is always there if you need it.
At Neutral Nest, we’re here to offer calm reassurance through every stage of your feeding journey — whether that’s colostrum, cluster feeds, bottles, or breastfeeding beyond the first year.