The First Weeks: How Much to Feed

In each 24-hour period babies usually need 2½ to 3 ounces for every pound they weigh. At first, your newborn baby may drink only 2 or 3 ounces at each feeding. In the newborn period, a breastfed baby will nurse every 2 or 3 hours, or about 8 to 12 times a day. Although you'll want to work up to 10-15 minutes of nursing with each breast, your baby will take in most of your milk in the first 5-7 minutes. More time will help your breasts make more milk and satisfies your baby's need to suck.

A baby who is too quiet and doesn't wake at least every 4 hours should be awakened for feedings. Let your doctor know if your baby seems too sleepy to wake up for feedings on his own. Within 3 or 4 weeks, after the breast milk supply is steady, your baby will nurse less often but may be drinking 4 ounces at most feedings.

When to Feed

In the first weeks you will want to feed your baby on demand. He needs it, and if you are breastfeeding, on-demand feeding will also help to establish your milk supply. Eventually, though, you may feel so competent that you'll be able to push him toward a schedule. In fact, you may be ready for a schedule before your baby is. You're ready when you notice that you don't jump as quickly as you did at first when he starts to move or whimper. Schedules are made for parents and families. Babies will, with time, learn to fit into them.

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