Does a two-month-old baby who is breastfeeding also need water?

May 10, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
Whether a two-month-old infant on breastfeeding needs additional water depends on factors such as the amount of breast milk and the baby's physical responses. If the mother has sufficient milk supply, ensuring the baby is well-fed, and the baby shows no signs of dry mouth, chapped lips, or dark yellow urine, additional water is generally not necessary. However, if breast milk production is low, leading to inadequate fluid intake for the two-month-old, it is usually advisable to supplement with an appropriate amount of water.

Whether a two-month-old infant on breastfeeding needs additional water usually depends on factors such as the amount of breast milk intake and the baby's physical responses. The details are as follows:

1. Not necessary

If the baby is exclusively breastfed and the mother has sufficient milk supply to ensure adequate feeding, and if the baby does not show signs such as dry mouth, chapped lips, or dark yellow urine after breastfeeding, additional water is generally not required.

2. Necessary

If the mother's milk supply is low and unable to meet the baby's nutritional and hydration needs, the infant may not get enough fluids, leading to symptoms like dark urine or constipation. In such cases, it's usually recommended to give small amounts of water between breastfeeding sessions to help promote proper fluid circulation.

Babies at younger ages have relatively weaker immune systems. Close attention should be paid to any changes in symptoms, and medical advice should be sought promptly if discomfort occurs.