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While your baby drinks colostrum and then milk, you should listen for a pattern of “suck, suck, suck, swallow.” This pattern will be rhythmic and there should be no “clicking” noises. The “clicking” sound can indicate that your baby is not properly latched on and may not be getting enough milk from you. If you start to hear this, you need to unlatch him and then reattach him. If you continue to hear this sound after reattaching him several times, then you may want to consult a lactation consultant or your pediatrician.

After the first week of life, you should see 6-8 wet diapers each day and at least 3 bowel movements a day. His urine should be clear and he should become more alert with each passing day. Your baby should also be gaining weight and growing, as this is the surest way to tell that they are getting enough nutrition. If you have two days in a row that deviates from the above indicators, then you should call your pediatrician immediately.

Breastfeeding problems, such as milk production difficulties, are not as common when using the PDF feeding method, but they do occur. Even if you are well rested, eating healthy, have a pretty routine life, and your baby is growing and getting enough food, you still may experience a milk production issue. Many things can cause production problems. Here are just a few.

Some things that can affect your milk supply are:

• What mom eats

• How much mom rests and sleeps

• Her state of mind

• The age of the mom

• How many children you have

• Your desire to breastfeed

• Your nursing capabilities

• Your nursing techniques

• Baby’s latch on abilities

If you choose to breastfeed, it is very important that you take your baby for their check-ups as needed. If you don’t, how will you know if he is getting enough milk and growing at the correct rate? There is no way for you to tell that your child is getting enough nutrition for sure without your child being weighed.

If you need any additional help you can contact the La Leche League International by telephone at (800) LALECHE (525-3243).

About The Author Melida Cohen is author of "Baby's First Year: Everything You Should Know but probably don't," She is a mother to 3 children. Her goal is to empower new moms and mothers to be. Visit www.CareForMyBaby.com to get a free copy of her baby care newsletter or visit her blog www.CareForMyBabyBlog.blogspot.com to chat with her and other new moms.

Breastfeeding My Baby, Where Do I Start?
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