Infant Growth: Understanding Charts & Weight Gain

Confused by growth charts? You’re not alone.
Learn what they mean, what to watch for, and how to ensure your baby is growing well.

Growth Charts 101
Not all charts are the same!
  • WHO Growth Charts
    Based on breastfed babies worldwide
    Show how children should grow
    Include babies breastfed at 4 and 12 months
  • CDC Growth Charts
    Based on typical U.S. children
    Show how children did grow (not necessarily ideal)
    Some gaps in early months
WHO = standard; CDC = reference. Know which one you’re looking at!

Why Growth Charts Matter
Growth charts aren’t just numbers—they show trends over time.
Signals to watch for:
  • Drops off their growth curve
  • Feeding behaviour changes
  • Changes in output (diapers)
  • Mood or alertness shifts
Sometimes “don’t worry about it” really means: “I don’t know how to read this chart” or “I don't know how to help.”

When Weight Gain Raises Questions
Even if your baby seems happy and content, weight gain can be a concern.
Common myths:
  • It must be a low milk supply
  • Not enough hind milk
  • A hungry baby will not sleep
  • Breastfed babies are just small
  • A hungry baby will cry 
  • Just putting baby to the breast often will improve weight gain 
The truth:
  • Milk transfer is a more common issue than low milk supply
  • More milk is more important than just hindmilk
  • A calm, content baby may still be underfed
  • Breastfed babies are actually a variety of sizes
  • Appetite often decreases in babies with slow weight gain
  • Short, inefficient feeds can reduce milk supply over time

 Subtle Signs to Watch
  • Sucking fingers after feeds
  • Jaundice that doesn’t resolve
  • Green stools
  • Dry skin, eczema, cradle cap
  • Less active than expected
  • Longer naps than usual
  • Baby only sleeps when being held
Don’t rely solely on fussiness—quiet babies may still need support!

What Parents Can Do
Track Trends, Not Numbers
  • Look at your baby’s curve over time
Observe Feeding & Behaviour
  • Short feeds or low appetite may signal intake issues
Get Help Early
  • An IBCLC can:
    • Assess feeding
    • Find root causes
    • Create a personalized plan
Early intervention often resolves weight gain concerns while maintaining breastfeeding