Newborn babies eat a lot, to say to the least. In the first few weeks after childbirth, it may feel as if all you do is nurse.
This is normal and temporary, though it may seem overwhelming at first. You’ll soon get accustomed to the routine. In the months ahead, feeding will eventually fall into a more predictable, less frequent schedule.
Generally, your newborn will eat every 1 to 3 hours, or at least 8 to 12 times in a 24-hour period.
It can take a baby quite a while to become full, so you may find that feedings take 20 to 40 minutes. And yes, that all adds up to many hours of your day spent breastfeeding.
Babies often cluster feed at night or during growth spurts. Cluster feeding refers to when a baby eats frequently in a small period of time (a “cluster”). This happens often during the first few days and weeks. It helps you generate a full milk supply and it helps your baby grow. Cluster feeding can also help fill that little belly for a longer stretch of sleep at night.
Getting Enough Milk?
Sometimes, babies are fussier when they’re cluster feeding. This is nothing to be too concerned about. If your baby has at least 6 wet diapers a day and her weight gain is on track, don’t worry about her not getting enough milk.
If you’d like, you can track feedings and urine and poop output by downloading an app to your phone. There are several apps available for this.
See also ...
• Cluster feeding and fussy evenings
This message is not intended to provide individual medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have about your health or medical condition, your breastfeeding issues and your infant's health. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you have read in our emails, webpages or other electronic communications.
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