What is a sign that a baby is well-fed during breastfeeding?

A sign that a baby is well-fed during breastfeeding is indicated by rounded cheeks during feeding. This physical characteristic suggests that the baby is achieving an effective latch and is actively suckling. When a baby’s cheeks are rounded, it typically means that the infant is drawing in and using their cheeks to help suckle, which can be a good indicator of a strong feeding session.

Effective feeding is crucial for adequate milk transfer and ensures that the baby is receiving the necessary nutrients and hydration for healthy growth. Rounded cheeks often reflect a good breastfeeding technique, where the baby is latched properly and efficiently extracting milk from the breast. This promotes both the baby's satisfaction after feeding and helps stimulate the mother's milk supply.

In contrast, other signs may not provide the same clarity or direct evidence of well-fed status as rounded cheeks do. For example, while weight gain by day 14 is important and generally indicates that a baby is thriving, it does not provide immediate feedback during the feeding session itself. Similarly, the presence or absence of yellow stools can vary widely among infants and might not serve as a definitive indicator of being well-fed. Lastly, visible pressed lips might occur for various reasons, including both effective and ineffective latching, making it a less reliable sign compared to the