How Often Should I Breastfeed My Newborn?

Our team at Garland Pediatric Practice in Garland, Texas, led by board-certified pediatrician Dr. Phani Bodavula, is committed to delivering outstanding medical care from birth through adolescence.

We’re also happy to support parents and caregivers regarding their child’s health and well-being, including newborn care and development. Read these basics about breastfeeding schedules for newborns and what to expect as your child grows.

Understanding a newborn’s nutritional needs

Breast milk is an ideal source of nutrition for newborns. It provides the perfect blend of nutrients, antibodies, and other bioactive components that support your baby's immune system and overall health.

Newborns have fast metabolisms and tiny stomachs that can hold only a small amount of milk at a time. In the early days, they may nurse frequently, sometimes every 1.5-3 hours, including overnight feedings.

This frequent feeding pattern is entirely normal and essential for establishing a robust milk supply and ensuring your baby stays well-hydrated and nourished. As your baby grows, they may nurse less frequently but still require multiple feedings throughout the day and night.

Newborns should never go longer than four hours without feeding, including overnight.

Signs of hunger and fullness

When breastfeeding, feed your newborn whenever they show hunger (responsive feeding). Learning to recognize your baby's hunger and fullness cues is essential for responsive feeding.

Parents quickly learn their baby’s unique communication style, but there are general signs of hunger and fullness:

Hunger

• Rooting or turning toward the breast or bottle
• Sucking on fists, fingers, or clothing
• Making sucking noises or lip movements
• Increased alertness or restlessness

Crying is a late-stage hunger cue and should ideally be responded to before it occurs.

Fullness

• Turning away from the breast or bottle
• Decreased sucking or interest in feeding
• Closing the mouth or pushing away
• Falling asleep or becoming drowsy during a feeding

Paying attention to these cues can ensure your baby receives the nourishment they need without overfeeding or underfeeding.

Feeding frequency by age

Newborns typically feed frequently, but the frequency may decrease as your baby grows and their stomach capacity increases. Here's a general guide for feeding frequency based on age:

Newborn (0-4 weeks)

Feed on demand, typically every 1-3 hours during a 24-hour period.

1-2 months

Feed every 2-3 hours, at least 7-9 times daily.

2-4 months

Feed every 3-4 hours, 6-8 times per day.

4-6 months

Feed every 3.5-4.5 hours or 5-6 times per day.

Important considerations

Dr. Bodavula considers several factors when monitoring your baby’s nutrition, including:

Weight gain

Your baby's weight gain is one of the best indicators of whether they're getting enough to eat. Dr. Bodavula monitors your baby's growth during checkups and provides guidance for feeding frequency or volume as needed.

Cluster feedings

It's normal for newborns to cluster feed, where they have a series of frequent feedings close together, followed by longer stretches of sleep. This behavior helps to boost milk supply and satisfy your baby's increased appetite during growth spurts.

Night feedings

Night feedings are common and necessary for newborns, as their tiny stomachs can't hold enough milk to sustain them for long periods. Try to create a calm, soothing environment for nighttime feedings to help your baby relax and return to sleep more easily.

Remember, every baby is different, so trust your instincts and consult with the team at Garland Pediatric Practice if you have any concerns about your baby's feeding habits or growth.

Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Bodavula today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.