Newborn feeding in the first week

How often newborns feed

Most newborns feed 8 to 12 times in a 24-hour period during the first week, which works out to roughly every 2 to 3 hours. Newborns have tiny stomachs and digest breast milk quickly, so frequent feeding is normal and expected. Feed on demand rather than on a strict clock — watch the baby, not the time.

Hunger cues

Early hunger cues include stirring, mouthing, rooting (turning the head and opening the mouth), and bringing hands to the mouth. Crying is a late hunger cue; it is easier to feed a calm baby, so try to respond before the baby becomes upset.

How to tell feeding is going well

Signs a newborn is getting enough milk include steady weight gain after the first couple of weeks, and an increasing number of wet and dirty diapers. By day five, many babies have about six or more wet diapers a day. Babies also often seem content and relaxed after a feed.

Cluster feeding

In the evenings, or during growth spurts, babies may want to feed very frequently over a few hours. This is called cluster feeding and is a normal newborn behavior, not a sign of low milk supply.

When to check with a professional

Contact a pediatrician, midwife, or lactation consultant if the baby is feeding fewer than eight times a day, is very difficult to wake for feeds, has very few wet diapers, or is not back to birth weight by about two weeks. Feeding concerns are common and support is available.