Breastfeeding check
Is breastfeeding going well?
A two-minute check for the first weeks and months. Answer a few questions about the latch, feeds, nappies and how your baby seems, and see whether things are on track or worth a closer look.
About 12 questions, one at a time. Nothing is saved or sent anywhere.
The first three days
- Your baby gets colostrum, a small amount of very concentrated first milk. Their tummy is tiny, so small amounts are exactly right.
- Feeding very often is normal and helps your milk come in, usually around day 3. On day 1 expect at least 3 to 4 feeds, then at least 8 in every 24 hours.
- Your baby may want to feed again soon after a feed, or several times close together, especially in the evening. This is called cluster feeding.
- Watch for early hunger signs: stirring, turning the head, opening the mouth, rooting, sucking hands or fingers. Crying is a late sign, so try to offer the breast before it.
Early hunger signs
Signs breastfeeding is going well
- Feeding is comfortable. Any tenderness as baby latches on eases within about 10 seconds.
- Your nipple is the same shape at the end of a feed as at the start.
- Your baby takes deep, rhythmic sucks, and from day 3 to 4 you can hear swallowing.
- After the first day, your baby feeds at least 8 times in 24 hours, usually for 5 to 40 minutes, and comes off by themselves.
- From about day 6, at least 6 heavy wet nappies a day, and in the first weeks at least 2 yellow, runny dirty nappies.
- Your baby is alert, a normal colour, and content after most feeds.
When to get help the same day
- Your baby is very sleepy and hard to wake for feeds, or has fewer wet or dirty nappies than expected.
- Your baby's skin or the whites of their eyes look yellow.
- You have a red, hot, painful area on your breast, or feel feverish or flu-like.
- Call 999 if your baby is floppy, not responding or struggling to breathe.
National Breastfeeding Helpline: 0300 100 0212
This check is for information only. It does not diagnose anything and does not replace advice from your midwife, health visitor or GP. Based on UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative and NHS guidance, the parent sources recommended by Lactation Consultants of Great Britain.
Breastfeeding hurting or not going to plan?
Book a breastfeeding consultation in English or Russian, at home or online. We'll look at the latch together and leave you with a clear plan.