Newborn Feeding Schedules: What You Need to Know

Newborn feeding schedules can be a bit of a mystery for new parents. With so much information out there, it can be hard to know what’s right for your baby. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into newborn feeding schedules, including how often your baby should be eating, how much they should be taking in, and when to wake them up for feedings.

How Often Should Newborns Eat?

From birth to about 3 months old, newborns typically feed on demand, which means they’ll eat whenever they’re hungry. In the first few days of life, babies may only eat a small amount at each feeding, but they will likely want to feed frequently, sometimes as often as every 1-2 hours. As their stomachs grow, they will be able to take in more milk, and feedings will become less frequent. After the first few days, newborns typically feed every 2-3 hours, or 8-12 times per day. It should also be noted that breastfed babies may need to eat more frequently than formula-fed babies, as breastmilk is digested more quickly. Additionally, some babies may have their own feeding preferences and may need to eat more or less frequently than what is considered “normal”. It’s important to listen to your baby’s cues and feed them when they’re hungry.

How Much Should Newborns Eat?

So, how much milk should your baby be taking in at each feeding? For breastfed babies, it’s difficult to measure exactly how much milk they are getting at each feeding. However, they should be allowed to nurse as long as they want on one breast before switching to the other, and they should be offered both breasts at each feeding. Most newborns will nurse for about 10-20 minutes on each breast. For bottle-fed babies, they may consume anywhere from 1-2 ounces of formula or breastmilk per feeding during the first few days of life, gradually increasing to 2-4 ounces by the end of the first week. However, every baby is different, and some may require more or less than this amount. It is essential to monitor your baby’s weight gain to ensure that they are getting enough milk. A general rule of thumb is that a newborn should gain 1-2 ounces per day in the first few weeks of life.

Newborns should never be forced to finish a bottle or nurse longer than they want to. They will usually stop feeding when they are full. Additionally, parents should look for signs of hunger (such as rooting, sucking on their fists, or fussing) and fullness (such as closing their mouth, turning away from the breast or bottle, or falling asleep) to help determine when their baby needs to eat and when they are full.

Waking Your Baby For Feedings

In general, it is recommended to wake your baby every 2-3 hours to feed, especially in the first few weeks of life. This helps ensure that your baby is getting enough nutrition and gaining weight appropriately. Once your baby has regained their birth weight and is consistently gaining weight, you can begin to let them sleep for longer stretches at night. If you are unsure of whether or not your baby should still be woken up to eat, consult with your pediatrician for guidance on how often your baby should be eating.

Tips For Successful Newborn Feedings

1. Hold your baby in a comfortable position: Make sure your baby is held in a comfortable position while feeding. You can use a nursing pillow or support to help you get into the best position for breastfeeding.

2. Make sure your baby is latched on correctly: Your baby should have a wide open mouth and take in as much of the areola (the dark area around your nipple) as possible. This will help your baby get enough milk and prevent sore nipples for you.

3. Switch sides during feedings: Make sure to switch sides during feedings to ensure that both breasts are emptied and that your baby gets enough hindmilk (the milk that comes at the end of a feeding).

4. Watch for hunger cues: Watch for your baby’s hunger cues, such as sucking on their fists or rooting around. Try to feed your baby before they become too hungry or upset.

5. Burp your baby: After feeding, burp your baby to help release any air they may have swallowed while feeding. This can help prevent discomfort and spitting up.

6. Keep track of feedings and diapers: Keep track of how often your baby feeds and how many wet and dirty diapers they have each day. This can help you ensure that your baby is getting enough to eat and is gaining weight appropriately.

7. Ask for help if needed: If you’re having trouble breastfeeding or have concerns about your baby’s feeding, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or your baby’s pediatrician for help and guidance.

A newborn’s feeding schedule can be challenging for new parents, but with the right information and preparation, it can be a smooth and fulfilling experience for both you and your baby. Remember to follow your baby’s cues, monitor their weight gain, and consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns. As your baby grows and develops, their feeding needs will change, and it’s essential to remain flexible and adaptable. With patience, persistence, and love, you can establish a feeding routine that works for you and your newborn.