New Jersey Wic

Feeding Your Baby - What to Expect

Feeding Your Baby

Many new moms have questions about breastfeeding. Knowing what to expect during the first few weeks can help. Breastfeeding is natural but it’s not always easy. WIC is here to help you get off to a great start!

Breastfeeding services provided by WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselors and International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) are included in your WIC benefits!

All About Breastfeeding​

Here are answers to 6 common questions about breastfeeding:
1. How often will I breastfeed my newborn?

Exclusive breastfeeding, especially in the first month, ensures a good milk supply.​

2. How long should feedings last?

If you are worried your baby is not getting enough milk, talk with your WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor or healthcare provider.

3. How much milk does my newborn need?

If your baby isn’t satisfied with the recommended amount at most feedings, talk with your WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor.

6-24months4. How long should I breastfeed?

WIC can help you meet your breastfeeding goals.

5. When should I start pumping?

Your WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor can help you acquire a pump and provide guidance on how to best use it.

6. What changes will happen with my milk, my newborn, and me in the first few weeks?
Birth

Pain is not a normal part of breastfeeding or pumping. If you experience any discomfort, please contact your WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor for support and assistance.

FIRST DAY
Your baby’s
stomach size
Size of a cherry
Your milk

Yellow and sticky

1 teaspoons
(5 ml)/feeding

Feedings

10+ times a day
30-45 minutes

1 teaspoons (5 ml)

What it
looks like
Diapers
  • 1+ pee
  • 1+ poop
(black/brown & sticky)

A good latch doesn’t hurt. If you experience pain, ask for help from the hospital Lactation Consultant or nurse.

DAY 2
Your baby’s
stomach size
Size of a cherry
Your milk
Yellow and sticky

2 teaspoons
(10 ml)/feeding
Feedings
10+ times a day
30-45 minutes

2 teaspoons
(10 ml)
What it
looks like
Diapers
  • 2+ pee
  • 2+ poop
(brown/green)

After they fall asleep, hold your baby for around 20 minutes until they transition into deep sleep before putting them down.

DAYS 3-5
Your baby’s stomach size
Size of a walnut
Your milk

Increasing in volume
Yellowish-white

1.0-1.5 oz./feeding

Feedings

10+ times a day
30-45 minutes

1.0-1.5 oz./feeding

What it looks like
Diapers
  • 3-5+ pee
  • 2-4+ poop (changing from green to yellow)
3-6 WEEKS
Your baby’s
stomach size
Size of a large egg
Your milk
White

2-4 oz./feeding
Feedings

10+ times a day
20+ minutes/feeding

2-4 oz./feeding

What it
looks like
Diapers
  • 3-5+ pee
  • 2-4+ poop (yellow)

WIC is here to support you throughout your entire breastfeeding journey. The first step is taking one of our free prenatal breastfeeding classes. Contact your WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor to sign up for a class today!