🍼 How Often Should a Newborn Feed? A Complete Guide for New Moms
happy baby sleeping soundly
Bringing home a newborn is a beautiful journey — but one of the biggest questions every parent asks is: “How often should my baby eat?”
The answer: newborns feed often, at least every 2–3 hours, day and night. But every baby is unique.
In this guide, based on UNICEF recommendations, we’ll cover everything you need to know about newborn feeding, including breastfeeding tips, formula insights, hunger cues, and milk supply secrets.
👶 Why Newborns Feed So Often
Newborns have tiny stomachs that can only hold small amounts of milk. That’s why they get hungry so quickly.
| Baby’s Age | Average Stomach Capacity | Feeding Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | ~5–7 mL (cherry size) | 8–12 times/day |
| Day 3 | ~22–27 mL (walnut size) | Every 2–3 hours |
| 1 Week | ~45–60 mL (apricot size) | Every 2–3 hours |
| 1 Month | ~80–150 mL (large egg) | Every 3–4 hours |
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🤱 Breastfeeding & Milk Supply: Why Frequency Matters
More suckling = more prolactin hormone = more milk.
Breastfeeding on demand (instead of strict schedules) keeps your supply strong.
Night feeds are essential — your body produces higher prolactin at night, helping boost milk production.
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⏰ Should You Stretch Out Feeding Intervals?
Some parents think longer gaps mean “better rest,” but stretching feeds too early can:
Lower milk supply
Affect weight gain
Make baby fussier
✅ Instead, feed responsively — watch baby’s cues, not the clock.
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🔍 Hunger Cues to Watch For
Every baby has their own rhythm. Look for:
👄 Rooting (turning head, opening mouth)
👶 Hand-to-mouth movements
🍼 Increased alertness or fussiness
Wet/dirty diapers and steady weight gain are good signs your baby is feeding well.
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❓ When to Seek Help
If you’re ever unsure about feeding, growth, or milk supply, reach out to:
Your pediatrician
A lactation consultant
A maternal health professional
📌 Key Takeaways
Newborns feed 8–12 times in 24 hours.
Stomach size is small → frequent feeds are normal.
Night feeds boost milk supply.
Don’t stretch intervals too soon.
Every baby is unique — follow cues.
✨ Final Words
Feeding your newborn may feel overwhelming, but remember: you’re not alone. At The Maternity Closet, we support moms with trusted baby gear, expert tips, and real-mom community advice.
💾 Save this guide and share it with a new mom who might need reassurance today.
