Q. What do I need to know about my baby’s fourth day of breastfeeding?

Fourth Day of Life (72—96 hours old):

1. Hello milk! There is usually little question of whether or not your milk has arrived. How will you know? Your breasts will be much larger, heavier, and tender. You should feel full before you nurse, and softer after you nurse. You should also see milk when you burp your baby (and sometimes when you shower). The change in your baby’s poop will also tell you the milkman has arrived.

2. If your breasts are rock hard and your areola (the darker colored ring around your nipple) are flattened against them, you are officially engorged. This lasts for a day or two and needs some troubleshooting.

3. Frequency goal: eight feedings in 24 hours. Do not let your baby sleep for more than 3.5 hours during the day or a four hour stretch at night.

4. Length of feedings goal: at least ten to 15 minutes per breast. Once your milk supply is well established (around four weeks of life), some women prefer to nurse with one breast per feeding. For now, use both at each feeding as it stimulates your milk production. You should be on your way now. Your baby should be gaining about an ounce a day.