Expert: ruth kraft - 12/31/2010

Question
Hello, my 4 month old had her checkup today and she has lost 4 ounces since her two month checkup. She does not seem to be thinner, I actually have noticed her diapers getting smaller and she went up a size in clothes. The doctor doesn't seem too concerned, she wants to see her in 2 weeks to check if she increased. I question the accuracy of their scales. I breastfeed exclusively and she eats every hour and a half to 2 hrs. She has recently been demanding more food and I always give it to her as soon as she cries. I can not pump out milk but I know I have milk in there as I see it when she is eating. She only weighs 10lbs 7 oz. I am very concerned, please tell me if this is normal. I am thinking about switching doctors as well because I feel she didn't care when I was in tears over this.

Answer
4 ounces is not something I would be concerned about from one visit. She can pee and be 6 ounces lighter. If she is having at least 6-8 wet diapers a day and a dirty one every few days she is getting enough. If she is growing, ( sounds like she is ) and is on track developmentally, then there is not usually any reason for concern.

Changing doctors is a good choice if you are uncomfortable with the one you have for sure. Trust that your body is making enough. it got you this far, it wont just stop for no reason. If you arent used to pumping, your body won't produce much when you do. especially if you pump after you nurse or in the evening. If you miss a feeding and wait 2 hours and then pump, you will likely get some but not as much as the baby will get. Pumps arent even close to as good as a baby nursing.

the baby might be eating more frequently because of a growth spurt. just follow her lead. She will get what she needs :)

good luck and happy new year!