how often should a newborn feed

Newborns should generally feed about every 2 to 3 hours, which usually amounts to 8 to 12 feedings in a 24-hour period. This frequency is because breast milk is easily digested, and newborns have small stomachs and need frequent nourishment. Feeding should be on demand, based on the baby's hunger cues, and newborns should not go more than about 4 hours without feeding, even overnight. Over time, feedings may become less frequent as the baby grows and their stomach capacity increases, but in the first weeks, frequent feedings are typical and important for growth and milk production stimulation.