How Long Should Newborns Feed?

Breastfeeding a newborn can be a daunting task, especially for new mothers. It is natural to have questions about the duration of feeds and whether your baby is getting enough milk. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, here is a comprehensive guide to help you understand the topic better.

Newborns should feed at least 8-12 times a day

Newborns have small stomachs, so they need to feed frequently. In their first month, newborn babies should breastfeed 8–12 times per day. This is because breast milk is easily digested, so newborns are hungry often. Feeding this frequently also helps to stimulate milk production during the first few weeks.

Newborns should not go more than about four hours without feeding, even overnight. In the first few weeks of life, breastfeeding should be "on demand" when the baby is hungry, which is about every 1-1/2 to 3 hours. As newborns get older, they'll nurse less often and may have a more predictable schedule.

The average amount of time a breastfeeding session takes can vary from about 10 minutes to about 45 minutes. Newborns may nurse for up to 20 minutes or longer on one or both breasts. A newborn may nurse for 10 to 15 minutes per side, but they can also nurse for much longer, even up to an hour.

It's important to know that the best way to ensure that a baby is getting enough breast milk is by feeding frequency, wet and dirty diapers, and weight gain. Your baby will produce at least four to six wet diapers a day and at least two stools a day. Your baby is gaining weight well and your breasts feel softer and less full after each feeding. Your child appears satisfied after each feeding and sleeps well between feedings.

A feed may last 10-20 minutes

A feed may last anywhere from 5 to 45 minutes, but 10 to 20 minutes is considered the average duration for a feeding session. The length of time a baby takes to breastfeed depends on several factors, including the baby's age, alertness, flow of milk, health, latch, and milk supply.

For newborns, a feed may last 10 to 15 minutes on each breast, but this can vary. Some newborns may nurse for longer, even up to an hour. It is important to ensure that the baby is getting enough milk and gaining weight adequately. If a newborn is regularly nursing for longer than 50 minutes, it may be an indication that they are not getting enough milk.

As babies get older, they become more skilled at breastfeeding and may take about 5 to 10 minutes on each side. Older babies may also be able to get enough breast milk in a shorter period. The timing of feeds can also vary throughout the day, with some babies feeding more frequently during certain periods, such as in the evenings.

It is important to follow the baby's lead when it comes to breastfeeding time and not worry too much about the clock. Allowing the baby to nurse for as long as they want once they are latched on and actively sucking is generally recommended.

A newborn should feed every 2-3 hours

A newborn baby should feed at least every 2-3 hours, and this may even be as frequent as every 1-2 hours. This is known as 'cluster feeding' and is entirely normal for newborns. It is recommended that newborns are fed at least 8-12 times in 24 hours.

The length of time between feeds should be counted from the start of one feed to the start of the next. Newborns may feed for up to 20 minutes or longer on one or both breasts. A newborn may nurse for 10-15 minutes per side, but this can vary. A baby may take a full feeding in 8 minutes, or it may take them 30 minutes or more to get the same amount of breast milk.

It is important to remember that the length of time a baby feeds for is not as important as the frequency of feeds, the number of wet and dirty nappies, and the baby's weight gain. A newborn baby should produce at least 4-6 wet nappies and 2-4 bowel movements per day. If a baby is gaining weight well, this is a good sign that they are feeding enough.

A 10-minute feed may not be enough for a newborn

Breast milk is easily digested, so newborns get hungry frequently. Newborn babies should breastfeed 8 to 12 times per day for about the first month, and this frequency helps stimulate milk production during the first few weeks. While there is a wide range of normal feeding durations, newborns may nurse for up to 20 minutes or longer on one or both breasts. As babies get older and more skilled at breastfeeding, they may take about 5 to 10 minutes on each side.

The length of feeding time can be influenced by various factors, such as the age of the baby, alertness, flow of milk, health, latch, and milk supply. For example, older babies can typically get enough breast milk in a shorter period. A sleepy baby may not feed as well or as fast as one who is awake and alert. If the flow of milk is slow or the let-down reflex is delayed, it can take longer for the baby to get enough milk.

It is important to pay attention to the baby's feeding cues and not solely rely on a strict feeding schedule. Responsive feeding is crucial, as it allows the baby to get enough of the creamier, higher-fat milk that usually comes toward the end of a feeding session. Additionally, frequent feeding has its benefits, as human milk has a lower fat content compared to other mammals, indicating that we are designed to need feeding more frequently.

To ensure a newborn is getting enough milk, it is recommended to look for the following signs:

• The baby has at least six wet diapers a day after the fifth day of life.
• The baby is gaining weight well.
• The baby appears satisfied after each feeding and sleeps well between feedings.

Consult a doctor or lactation consultant if concerned

If you are concerned about your baby's feeding, it is important to consult a doctor or lactation consultant. They will be able to assess your baby's feeding pattern and provide guidance and reassurance. Here are some signs that your baby may not be getting enough to eat and that you should seek professional help:

• Weight loss: In the first five days of life, it is normal for babies to lose up to 10% of their birth weight. However, they should regain this weight by the time they are two weeks old. If your baby is losing more weight than this, or is not regaining their birth weight by two weeks, consult a doctor.
• Fewer wet diapers: Once your baby is five days old, they should be having at least five to six wet diapers in a 24-hour period. If they are having fewer wet diapers, it could be a sign that they are not getting enough breast milk.
• Fussiness or lethargy: If your baby is very fussy or lethargic most of the time, it could be a sign that they are not getting enough nutrition.
• Short or long nursing sessions: If your baby is regularly nursing for less than 10 minutes or for more than about 50 minutes at a time, it may indicate that they are not getting enough milk.
• Spitting up: While it is normal for babies to spit up a small amount after eating or during burping, vomiting after every feeding could be a sign of an allergy, digestive problem, or other medical issue.

Lactation consultants are specialists in breastfeeding and can provide support and education to new mothers. They can help with a range of issues, including latching difficulties, sore nipples, low milk supply, and establishing a feeding schedule. They can also provide reassurance and answer any questions or concerns you may have about breastfeeding.

It is recommended to consult a lactation consultant within the first few days of giving birth, as this is a critical time for establishing breastfeeding and for your baby's weight gain. They can provide guidance on positioning and latching, as well as troubleshooting any issues that may arise.

If you are concerned about your baby's feeding, don't hesitate to reach out to a doctor or lactation consultant for help and support.

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