Certified Lactation Consultant Practice Exam

A sufficient number of wet diapers, ideally at least 6 to 8 per day, serves as a key indicator of adequate breastfeeding because it reflects the infant's hydration and nutritional intake. When an infant is effectively breastfeeding, they receive enough milk to produce an adequate volume of urine. This measure indicates that the infant is receiving sufficient breastmilk to meet their needs.

Wet diapers demonstrate that the kidneys are functioning properly and that the baby is consuming enough fluid. This output is crucial as it reassures caregivers and healthcare providers that the baby is not dehydrated and is receiving optimal nutrition through breastfeeding.

Though visible weight gain and the frequency of breastfeeding sessions are important, they can be influenced by various factors and may not provide an immediate assessment of breastfeeding adequacy. Temperature of the mother's body, while important for maternal health, does not directly reflect the effectiveness of breastfeeding or the infant's intake. Therefore, the number of wet diapers is a straightforward and reliable measure for assessing the adequacy of breastfeeding.