Human milk digests in under an hour so it is expected that your baby will want to nurse very frequently. Mammals who keep their young with them (like primates) rather than leave them in a nest have milk that is low in fat and protein, which necessitates frequent feedings. Put your baby to your breast whenever he wants it, regardless of when he last nursed. Prolactin levels will remain high and your breasts will be stimulated to maintain adequate production.

Every so often your baby will go through a growth spurt. During this time he or she will nurse much more frequently than he did before. This is because he's stimulating your breasts to increase production. After a few days his feeding frequency should settle down once more. Topping off with formula after nursing can hinder your body's ability to increase milk production. Formula takes longer for your baby to digest and since he will be full he will not remove milk from your breasts as frequently. Your body won't get the signal to increase production. A baby who takes additional formula after nursing isn't necessarily hungry- the milk basically dumps into the baby and therefore he must take it. It's best to just put your baby back to your breast whenever he wants to nurse to ensure an adequate milk supply.

After the first week your baby should be producing 3-4 bowel movements about the size of a US quarter. Urine should be clear and non-smelly. Baby should be gaining weight.

Until your mature milk comes in after the birth (which can take up to ten days, but more typically will be about three) you will produce colostrum, which is all your baby needs for nourishment and fluids. It is present in only small amounts and you may not notice any at all while pregnant. This is normal- a newborn's stomach is very small and not very elastic. Your baby will only take a very small amount at a time. The best way to ensure an adequate milk supply is to put your baby to your breast frequently- whenever he shows signs of wanting to nurse, and to not use bottles or pacifiers.

After some time your breasts will switch to a supply and demand mode and only produce what is removed from your breasts. By your daughter's age your supply is quite regulated. Not feeling full is no indication of your supply.

Any birth control that involves the use of hormones should be used with caution. Estrogen-containing birth control should not be used while breastfeeding as it is known to reduce milk supply. The mini-pill which contains progesterone only does not affect supply as readily but it still has been known to in some mothers. The mirena IUD does release progestin, but as it is released locally only is not as much of a concern regarding milk supply. You should speak with your doctor about beginning any hormonal birth control method. Barrier methods are safe and effective. Ecological breastfeeding is extremely effective and is typically as effective as the pill when used correctly and your baby is under 6 months old. Natural family planning is very effective as well, but does require an awareness of your body's rhythms.