There is no linear connection between water consumption and milk production,
as has been demonstrated in several good studies.  The literature suggests,
(and more coming soon,  I hear), that poops, not pees are better markers for
adequate intake.  The literature clearly suggests (ref. data from 4
developed countries) that early weight faltering is an abnormal sign in
breastfed infants.  Growth in young animals is supposed to be most robust
early on, with tapering at the 4-5 month mark.  There are a bunch of
physical reasons that range from PCOS and poorly managed diabetes, to anemia
and blood loss, to subtle hormonal imbalances and breast surgery that can
impact early maternal lactation performance.  There are also a bunch of
baby-related issues from neurologic to oral-motor probs. that can impair the
baby's ability to transfer milk.  Any baby who has problems recovering birth
weight by 2 weeks postpartum needs both mom and baby worked up for lactation
probs. Babies who continue to falter past the 1 mo. mark need workup for
organic illness, as per the lit (see Jim Lukefhar's article on this one).  I
am with Diane Weissinger on catch-up feeding for starving babies.
Naturally, one throws every trick in the book at trying to salvage the milk
supply, but the first rule is:  Feed the baby.


Barbara Wilson-Clay BSEd, IBCLC
Austin Lactation Associates
http://www.lactnews.com

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