In the first 3 days, the mother produces thick yellow milk called colostrum. From then till day 10, early milk is produced which has more water and flows easily. It is common for a mother to think her baby is not getting enough milk.

Signs that your baby is getting enough milk

1. The baby gains weight appropriately
2. The baby passes urine and poo regularly
3. The baby calms or sleeps after breastfeeding
4. The child looks healthy, well hydrated with fresh succulent skin

Inadequate breastfeeding can be caused by

1. Poor breastfeeding technique: ensure the baby latches on the nipple well. Get breastfeeding training during antenatal visits and after birth. You can also get support from your midwife.
2. Poor food intake by mother
3. Poor milk flow: to improve the milk flow-
   1. The mother should take enough fluid and liquid diet
   2. The mother should eat balanced meal including milk and milk products
   3. The mother should put the baby to breast more often at least once every 2 hours; the more the baby suck, the more the milk will flow
4. Irregular breastfeeding; this is common today because of short maternity leaves granted to working mothers. Such mothers tend to augment the breastfeeding with water and infant formula. This reduces the flow of breast milk in the mother. It is important that workplaces are breastfeeding-suitable. A working mother can express breast milk and keep for the baby’s feeding in her absence. The milk should be kept in a sterile container and put inside a refrigerator.