FAQ
About Lactation
How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?
In the first weeks after birth it’s normal to wonder how much your baby is getting, especially with breastfeeding. Here are some helpful hints…
Signs your baby is getting enough
Wet and dirty diapers: Expect about 6–8 wet diapers & 3 poopy diapers per 24 hours by day 4–5 of life. Stools move from meconium to yellow, seedy stools for exclusively breastfed babies.
Weight trend: Newborns commonly lose up to 7–10% of birth weight in the first 3–5 days. By about 10–14 days most babies are back to birth weight.
Feeding cues and behavior: Effective feeds include a wide latch, rhythmic sucking with audible swallows, and contentment after most feeds (they may be sleepy but generally calm for a period). Short cluster feeding is normal some days. How do your breast feel after a feed? If they feel softer this is a great sign you’re transferring milk to your baby.
When to seek help from a lactation consultant or clinician
Baby is losing more than 10% of birth weight.
Fewer than 4–6 wet diapers per day after day 4, or very dark concentrated urine.
Little or no stooling by 48 hours, or stools that don’t change from meconium.
Strong, persistent nipple pain, poor latch, or baby seems unable to sustain effective sucking.
Excessive sleepiness, difficulty waking for feeds, or signs of dehydration or jaundice.
You have significant anxiety about feeding—support is available and often helpful early.
Other practical tips
Count diaper output rather than clocking minutes; milk transfer varies and diaper counts are a reliable indicator.
When will my milk begin to increase or transition from colostrum?
Colostrum is produced during pregnancy and in the first 2–4 days after birth. The transition from colostrum to “mature” milk (often called the milk “coming in”) typically occurs between 48 to 96 hours postpartum. For many birthing people the noticeable increase in milk volume happens around day 3 to day 5, however if you are 2nd time mom this transition may happen sooner.
Factors that influence timing and volume
Mode of delivery: Vaginal births commonly see the milk come in by 48–72 hours; cesarean birth can sometimes delay onset by 12–24+ hours.
First hours and days after birth: Early, frequent skin-to-skin contact and initiating breastfeeding or milk removal soon after birth support earlier onset.
Frequency of removal: Milk production increases with effective and frequent milk removal (breastfeeding or pumping). Colostrum gradually shifts to transitional milk as supply ramps up.
Maternal health and medications: Conditions like retained placenta, severe blood loss, certain medications, or thyroid dysfunction can delay onset.
Previous lactation history: People who have breastfed before often experience a faster milk transition.
Infant factors: A sleepy or medically separated baby who isn’t breastfeeding often can delay the increase in milk.
What to expect
Early (24–48 hours): Small volumes of thick, yellow colostrum; baby may cluster feed.
Around 48–96 hours: Breasts feel fuller, heavier, sometimes warm; you may notice leaking and a higher volume of milk. The milk color may change from yellowish colostrum to more whitish transitional milk.
After 1–2 weeks: Milk composition and supply generally stabilize into mature milk.
When to seek help
If milk has not begun to increase by 5–7 days postpartum, or if you have signs of low milk transfer (baby not gaining weight, very few wet/dirty diapers), significant breast pain, fever, or other concerning symptoms, contact a lactation consultant, your healthcare provider, or postpartum support.
If you had risk factors (cesarean, retained placenta, maternal illness, supplementation, or neonatal complications), get early lactation support to protect and build supply.
Practical tips to encourage increase
Offer the breast frequently and on demand; aim for 8–12+ feeds per 24 hours in the early days.
Ensure good latch and positioning; seek hands-on help if latch is painful or ineffective.
Use skin-to-skin contact to encourage feeding cues and oxytocin release.
Pump if the baby can’t feed well—use frequent pumping (including a hospital-grade pump if needed) to stimulate supply.
Stay hydrated, rest when possible, eat nourishing foods, and reduce stress; consider postpartum and lactation support for individualized care.
If you want, I can provide a feeding frequency checklist, signs of effective milk transfer, or a short plan to increase supply based on your specific situation.
Postpartum Bodywork
What is Abhyanga?
Abhyanga is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves self-massage using warm oil. It is considered a form of therapy for both the body and mind in Ayurveda, the traditional medicine system of India.
What are the benefits of Abhyanga?
Abhyanga is believed to have numerous benefits, including promoting relaxation, improving circulation, nourishing the skin, soothing the nervous system, and aiding in the removal of toxins from the body.
What type of oil is used for Abhyanga?
The type of oil used for Abhyanga can vary depending on an individual's constitution (dosha) and specific health needs. Common oils used include sesame, coconut, olive, and almond oil.
How often should one practice Abhyanga?
The frequency of Abhyanga can vary from person to person. It is generally recommended to practice Abhyanga regularly to experience its full benefits. Some may choose to do it daily, while others may opt for a few times a week.
Is Abhyanga suitable for everyone?
Abhyanga is generally considered safe for most people. However, individuals with certain medical conditions, skin issues, or who are pregnant should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting Abhyanga to ensure it is appropriate for them.
FAQ
What is an Ayurvedic Postpartum Doula
Q: What is an Ayurvedic Postpartum Doula?
A: An Ayurvedic Postpartum Doula is a trained professional who provides physical, emotional, and educational support to new mothers and families during the postpartum period using Ayurvedic principles.
Q: What services does an Ayurvedic Postpartum Doula offer?
A: Services provided by an Ayurvedic Postpartum Doula may include nutritional guidance, herbal remedies, infant care education, light household tasks, breastfeeding support, and emotional wellness support.
Q: How is an Ayurvedic Postpartum Doula different from a traditional Postpartum Doula?
A: An Ayurvedic Postpartum Doula incorporates Ayurvedic practices such as personalized nutrition guidance, specific herbs and oils, and lifestyle recommendations tailored to the individual's constitution, in addition to the standard postpartum doula services.
Q: What are the benefits of hiring an Ayurvedic Postpartum Doula?
A: Benefits may include faster postpartum recovery, increased breast milk production, reduced stress and anxiety, improved bonding with the baby, and personalized care that considers the mother's unique needs.