Test Weight
What is a test weight?
A test weight is the difference in body weight before and after breast feeding. Your baby is weighed on a special electronic scale. A change in weight (in grams) is an estimate of the amount of milk your baby got from the breast (in mL).
Why do test weights?
Test weights may help your care provider monitor milk intake if your baby is in the hospital. They are also used when there are concerns about some breast feeding problems. Test weights, along with other signs of effective breast feeding, help you and your care provider make a plan to support good nutrition while feeding problems are being addressed.
Things to know about test weights:
- The scale used for test weights can affect the results. Scales designed to measure breast milk intake may give more precise results.
- Your care provider will look for other signs of good nutrition, such as weight gain or hunger cues, in addition to recorded milk intake volumes.
- Your baby will be weighed with the same clothes and diaper before and after breast feeding.
Write down any questions you have about test weights and bring them with you to discuss with your health care provider.
Contact Us
For additional information on this Health Topic, call the Center for Breastfeeding Medicine at 513-636-2326.
Rev. 4/1/09
