As a pregnant or breastfeeding mom, understanding what to expect regarding breast milk volume can help you feel confident about your baby’s growth and development. The composition of breast milk is constantly evolving to meet your baby’s nutritional needs, provide immune protection, and support development at every stage. This guide offers insights into the factors that influence breast milk production and provides average volumes based on your baby's age. By empowering yourself with this knowledge, you can better navigate your breastfeeding journey and ensure that your little one receives the nourishment they need to thrive.

Understanding Breast Milk Volume

The amount of milk produced varies from one mother to another and is influenced by several key factors:

  • Gestational Age: Preterm infants may require different volumes of milk than full-term babies.

  • Frequency of Feeding: Most breastfed babies need to feed at least 8–12 times per day for healthy weight gain. Responding to your baby’s hunger cues is more important than following a strict schedule.

  • Supply and Demand: Hormones initiate milk production, but the main driver of supply is how often and effectively milk is removed from the breasts.

  • Infant's Age and Growth Spurts: Babies often need larger volumes during growth spurts, commonly around 3 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months.

  • Breast Storage Capacity: Each mother has a unique storage capacity, which is not directly related to breast size. Some breasts store more milk comfortably than others.

Average Intake Based on Baby’s Age

A newborn’s stomach is very small at birth, but it grows quickly, allowing for higher volumes of milk during feedings. Milk intake varies widely among babies who are growing well, but these general guidelines can provide a helpful reference.

First Week

Milk production grows quickly the first week after your baby’s birth. It will grow from just about an ounce per day on Day 1 to an ounce or two per feeding by the end of the first week!

  • Day 1: 2–10 mL (0.07–0.3 oz) per feeding

  • Day 2: 5–15 mL (0.17–0.5 oz) per feeding

  • Day 3: 15–30 mL (0.5–1 oz) per feeding

  • Day 4: 30–60 mL (1–2 oz) per feeding

  • Day 7 45–60 mL (1.5–2 oz) per feeding

First 4–6 Weeks

Milk production continues to increase in the first month, as your baby goes through several growth spurts. During this period, your baby may begin cluster feeding for several days in a row. This is a normal pattern that helps your supply adjust to your baby’s needs.

When is Milk Supply Established?

By the time your baby is about 6 weeks old, your milk supply is considered well established—meaning that you will be producing about as much milk as your baby will ever need! From 6 weeks to 6 months of age—when most babies begin eating solid foods—milk supply stabilizes. During this time, an exclusively breastfed baby's average milk intake is between 80 to 150 mL (2.5–5 ounces) per feeding. Here is a breakdown:

  • 1 month: Average Daily Intake: 624 mL (21 oz)

  • 3 months: Average Daily Intake: 735 mL (25 oz)

  • 6 months: Average Daily Intake: 729 mL (25 oz)

  • 12 months: Average Daily Intake: 593 mL (20 oz)

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Supply

Feed on Cue

Respond to your baby’s early feeding cues. On-demand feeding, day and night, helps maintain supply and supports healthy growth in the early months.

Pump if Needed

If you’re separated from your baby, experiencing latching difficulties, or concerned about your supply, using a breast pump will help provide your baby with breast milk and help maintain production.

Monitor Baby’s Output

A well-fed baby typically has at least 6 wet diapers and at least 3 soft, seedy bowel movements per day in the early months.

Track Weight Gain

Regular visits with your baby’s pediatrician will enable you to monitor your baby’s weight. They will partner with you to ensure your baby is meeting their developmental milestones and thriving.

Seek Support

The first year of life is filled with learning, growth, and plenty of questions, and it’s completely normal to need help along the way. A lactation consultant can assist with breastfeeding concerns, your newborn baby’s feeding behaviors, and expectations as they grow. Every breastfeeding journey is unique. Trust your body, respond to your baby’s cues, and seek help when needed. With support and patience, you can provide the nourishment your baby needs to thrive.

Disclaimer: Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical advice. For personalized recommendations, please consult your healthcare provider and/or lactation consultant.