Newborns typically feed about 8 to 12 times per day, which is roughly every 1.5 to 3 hours. Breast milk is easily digested, so newborns are hungry often and should not go more than about 4 hours without feeding, even overnight. Feeding on demand, responding to hunger cues like rooting or sucking motions, is recommended in the early weeks as babies adjust to their feeding pattern.
Feeding Frequency
- 8–12 times in 24 hours for the first month, often every 1.5 to 3 hours
- Some newborns may feed every hour at times (cluster feeding)
- It's normal and important for newborns not to go more than 4 hours without feeding
How to Tell When to Feed
- Look for early hunger signs such as sucking on fists, lip smacking, or rooting (turning head and opening mouth)
- Crying is a later hunger cue; feeding before crying is easier
Feeding Duration and Amount
- Newborns take small amounts per feeding initially (about half an ounce to 1 ounce)
- The amount increases as the baby grows; by 1 month, babies typically take about 4 ounces per feeding
- Breastfeeding sessions may vary in length; longer sessions help stimulate milk production
Feeding frequency naturally adjusts as infants grow, with fewer feedings spaced further apart after the first few weeks or months.
