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Is my 10-month-old getting enough breast milk?

Understanding Your 10-Month-Old’s Breast Milk Intake
As a parent, it’s natural to worry about whether your baby is getting enough nutrition, especially when it comes to breastfeeding. At 10 months old, your baby is likely transitioning to a more varied diet, but breast milk still plays a crucial role in their nutrition. Here’s how to assess if your little one is getting enough breast milk.
Signs of Adequate Milk Intake
One of the most reassuring indicators that your baby is receiving enough breast milk is their growth and development. Babies typically double their birth weight by about five months and triple it by their first birthday. If your 10-month-old is following their growth curve on the pediatrician’s chart, that’s a positive sign.
In addition to growth, consider the following signs that your baby is getting enough milk:
– Wet Diapers: A well-fed baby usually has about six to eight wet diapers a day. This is a reliable indicator of hydration and milk intake.
– Contentment After Feeding: If your baby seems satisfied and relaxed after breastfeeding sessions, it’s likely they are getting enough milk.
– Feeding Frequency: At this age, babies may breastfeed anywhere from three to five times a day, depending on their individual needs and how much solid food they are consuming.
Monitoring Feeding Patterns
Breastfeeding is not just about quantity; it’s also about quality. Pay attention to how your baby feeds. A good latch and effective sucking are crucial for ensuring they are getting enough milk. If you notice your baby is frequently fussy or seems to be feeding for long periods without contentment, it might be worth consulting a lactation consultant or pediatrician.
Transitioning to Solid Foods
By 10 months, your baby is likely eating a variety of solid foods, which can affect their breast milk intake. While breast milk remains an important source of nutrition, the introduction of solids means that your baby may naturally reduce the frequency of breastfeeding. This is normal and can be a healthy part of their development.
Addressing Concerns About Milk Supply
Many mothers worry about their milk supply, but it’s important to remember that most women produce enough milk to meet their baby’s needs. If you have concerns about low milk supply, consider factors such as stress, hydration, and overall health, as these can impact milk production. If you suspect your supply is low, there are strategies to boost it, such as increasing breastfeeding frequency or ensuring proper latch.
Conclusion
In summary, if your 10-month-old is growing well, has plenty of wet diapers, and seems satisfied after feedings, they are likely getting enough breast milk. However, if you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Remember, every baby is unique, and their needs can vary widely.

How much breastmilk should a 10 month old drink?

Breast milk feedings and amounts by age

Age Time between feedings Ounces per feeding
1-3 Months 3-4 hours 3-4 ounces
3-6 months 4-6 hours 4-8 ounces
6-9 months 4-6 hours 6-8 ounces
9-12 months 5-8 hours 7-8 ounces

Is only breast milk enough for a 10 month old?

Should I still give my baby breast milk or first infant formula? Yes. To begin with they will still be getting most of their energy and nutrients from breast milk or first infant formula. Breast milk or first infant formula should be their main drink during the first year.

How do I know if my milk supply is drying up at 10 months?

Some signs that your baby isn’t getting enough milk when they feed and may indicate a supply problem include the following:

  1. Not producing enough wet/dirty diapers each day.
  2. Lack of weight gain.
  3. Signs of dehydration.

Is it OK if I stop breastfeeding at 10 months?

The World Health Organization recommends that all babies be exclusively breastfed for 6 months, then gradually introduced to appropriate foods after 6 months while continuing to breastfeed for 2 years or beyond.

Does milk supply decrease after 10 months?

Sudden drop in milk supply around 9 months
and pumping when you’re away from them. Another EXTREMELY important point to understand is that breastmilk becomes HIGHER IN CALORIES as baby gets older. Babies are getting shots of nutrition (lower volume, higher calories).

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.

Do babies drink less milk at 10 months?

Your baby should still be having about a pint (600ml) of breastmilk or formula a day until he’s 12 months old, but once he’s fully established on solids and eating well, you may find he doesn’t want as much milk.

Can I increase my breast milk supply after 10 months?

Several strategies can help to increase breast milk production, like nursing more often and adding certain foods to your diet. If you’re concerned you aren’t producing enough milk, talk with your healthcare professional or a lactation specialist.

How do I know my 10 month old is getting enough breastmilk?

Signs your baby is getting enough milk
They seem calm and relaxed during feeds. Your baby comes off the breast on their own at the end of feeds. Their mouth looks moist after feeds. Your baby appears content and satisfied after most feeds.

How do I know if my breastfed baby is underfed?

What are some signs that my baby might not be getting enough milk?

  • Baby seems very sleepy or lethargic.
  • Baby takes too little or too much time at the breast.
  • Latching is painful or appears shallow.
  • Baby hasn’t regained their birth weight by 10-14 days old or weight gain is slower than expected.
Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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