How often to feed baby.
Feeding Your Newborn: How Often Should You Feed Your Baby After Leaving the Hospital?
Congratulations, you’ve just brought your newborn home from the hospital! Now, as you settle into life with your little one, one of the biggest questions on your mind might be: “How often should I be feeding this tiny human?”
The Golden Rule: Feed on Demand
In those first few weeks, newborns eat a lot—and by "a lot," we mean about 8 to 12 times a day. That’s every 2 to 3 hours around the clock! Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, the key is to feed on demand. When your baby starts to show signs of hunger—like rooting, sucking on their hands, or turning their head toward you—it’s time to feed.
Pro Tip: Don’t wait until they start crying—that’s a late hunger sign. By then, your little one might be a bit too cranky for a peaceful feeding session.
Nighttime Feeds: Yes, They’re Necessary
Yes, you’ll be getting up at night to feed your baby. It’s part of the newborn experience! Newborns have tiny tummies, so they can’t hold much food at once, meaning they’ll need to eat frequently, even during those precious nighttime hours. Embrace the night feeds—they’re a great time for quiet bonding.
Growth Spurts: Prepare for Extra Feeds
Just when you think you’ve got the feeding schedule down, your baby will hit a growth spurt. These usually happen around 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months. During these times, your baby might want to eat even more frequently. Don’t worry; it’s perfectly normal! Your baby is just growing, and so is their appetite.
Pro Tip: Keep some snacks and water nearby during these marathon feeding sessions—you’ve got to take care of yourself, too!
Trust Your Instincts (and Your Baby)
Every baby is different, so while these guidelines are helpful, trust your instincts and pay attention to your baby’s cues. They’ll let you know when they’re hungry, and before you know it, you’ll both settle into a feeding routine that works for you.
Conclusion:
Feeding a newborn is one of the most important (and frequent) tasks in those early weeks. By feeding on demand and paying attention to your baby’s hunger cues, you’ll ensure they’re getting all the nourishment they need to grow strong and healthy. So, take a deep breath, enjoy those sweet feeding moments, and remember—you’ve got this!