A newborn typically drinks about 1 to 2 ounces of milk or formula per feeding in the first week after birth. By the time they are around one month old, this usually increases to about 3 to 4 ounces per feeding. On average, newborns feed every 2 to 3 hours, which totals about 8 to 12 feedings in 24 hours. The total daily intake can be estimated by multiplying the baby's weight (in pounds) by 2.5 to get the number of ounces per day. For example, an 8-pound baby would drink about 20 ounces a day. Overall guidelines for newborn feeding amounts are:
- First few days: about 1/2 ounce to 1 ounce per feeding (colostrum at first)
- First week: 1 to 2 ounces per feeding
- By 2 weeks: 2 to 3 ounces per feeding
- Around 1 month: 3 to 4 ounces per feeding
Babies usually consume up to about 32 ounces a day maximum by a few months old. It's important to watch for hunger cues and let the baby guide the feeding amounts, rather than rigid schedules.
In summary, a typical newborn drinks approximately 1 to 2 ounces per feeding initially, increasing to about 3 to 4 ounces by one month of age.
