Nursing Effectively & Getting Enough Milk

Too often people are told that "latch is good" simply because the baby’s mouth is on the breast. But, this is not the only determinant.

Latch hurts - don’t let anyone gaslight you on this - pain, sores and nipple compression (flat, lipstick, etc) are not normal! A painful latch is likely less effective too - the baby taking in less (or even very little) milk, which impacts your supply, and the baby’s weight gain.
Baby is not gaining even though they are latched “all the time”. A sleepy baby is not lazy - they are having trouble getting milk from you, so they go to sleep because they are either fatigued or conserving their energy
Your supply does not increase (from colostrum in the first few days to more volume over time). You may be told you have a low supply and that’s why the baby is not gaining. However, it’s likely the reverse - the baby is not latching correctly and not “removing” milk - and therefore not increasing your supply.
Baby has jaundice - this is a clear sign that the baby is not getting enough milk.

Latch does not hurt. Note - if you feel a bit of discomfort but know the baby is getting milk (gaining weight, making diapers), then this might be because you are both learning. But - latch should be fully comfortable, even feel good, very soon!
Baby actively drinks (not sleepily “nibbles”) - see below
Baby makes good diaper counts and gains weight (after short term weight loss) - see below
Your supply increases from colostrum in the first few days to higher volumes (and meeting your baby’s needs).

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