If you are new to breastfeeding, there are a number of reasons why you may come to ask yourself this question.
Your baby seems constantly hungry, especially in the evenings.
Most babies under 6 to 8 weeks old drink a lot of milk during the evening - in fact, it is more likely than not to be their hungriest time.
Babies can seem unsettled and very hungry during this time, but it is simply due to their huge appetite for milk, rather than the lack of it that makes them this way.
It is also common for babies to 'cluster-feed' during the evenings. This involves almost non stop feeding for literally hours. Do not become disheartened - make sure someone can bring you food and drink and is able to put on your favourite box set on the TV.
2. Your baby falls asleep during a feed
If your baby snoozes rather than eats during a feed, she may be suckling for comfort rather than hunger. She may also seem hungry shortly after her first sleepy feed, as her hunger hasn't been satisfied at the first attempt.
If you feel this is the case, try tickling toes, singing loudly, coughing or even wetting the back of your baby's neck to encourage her to stay awake during the whole feed.
3. Your baby seems to be eating but has not put on much weight
If your baby is feeding from you frequently but is still not putting on much weight, it could point towards problems with your baby's latch, rather than your milk supply.
Get in touch with your local breastfeeding support group or health visitor - they will be able to have a look at your latch and work with you to fix any problems.
What can affect your milk supply?
Using a dummy or pacifier
Dummies can change a baby's sucking action slightly, resulting in a different sucking action on your breast. This can confuse the signals that tell your body to make more milk.
Bottle feeding after 12am
The hours between 12 and 4am are crucial to resetting your milk supply for coming days ahead. If you introduce a bottle, whether that be formula or expressed milk during the overnight feed, you could disrupt this.
Feeding to a schedule
The NHS recommend feeding on demand, rather than to a strict routine. Only your baby knows how much milk she needs during any one day, and so adhering to a strict feeding schedule can disrupt your supply.
If you are still experiencing supply problems, the La Leche League International is an excellent source of advice and support. Click here for more information.
