To Elizabeth Puzar, Margery Wilson, and others- Before we can give "ideals" or even "red flags," we need to know and understand thoroughly what the norms are for unmedicated, early-to-breast babies who have unlimited access to the breast in the first five days of life. I haven't found definitive research on this anywhere. Has anyone else? Colostrum is a low-volume feed, almost gel-like in consistency. There's probably a really good reason for babies to take only this stuff until lactose synthesis kicks in at around 30-hours post birth with a rise in fluid volume and more lactose in the milk (Hartmann). Until we know why nature designed it that way (Thanks, MOM), we would be unwise to fool with it unless the baby is in serious danger, and even then with great caution. I have my own numbers based more on stooling than urine because I've seen too many hydrated, starving babies. The milk transfer is the key, and the appearance of mom's nipple immediately after BF is a big clue. Creased = a problem. Wet, no change in shape = probably OK. Linda Smith, BSE, FACCE, IBCLC Private Practice, Dayton OH in the middle of a blizzard right now.