Share the loveâ¦. 1  Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) 2  Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) 3  Click to share on Google+ (Opens in new window) 4  Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) 5  Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) 6  Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
Your newborn will nurse about 8 to 12 times per day during the first weeks of life. In the beginning, mothers may want to try nursing 10-15 minutes on each breast, then adjust the time as necessary. Breastfeeding should be on demand (when your baby is hungry), which is generally every 1-3 hours. As newborns get older, they'll nurse less often and have longer stretches between feedings. Newborn babies who are getting formula will likely take about 2-3 ounces every 2-4 hours.
1. Stick with breast milk or formula. Breast milk is the ideal food for babies â with rare exceptions. If breast-feeding isn't possible, use infant formula. Healthy newborns don't need water, juice or other fluids. Most newborns need eight to 12 feedings a day â about one feeding every two to three hours. Look for early signs of hunger, such as stirring and stretching, sucking motions and lip movements. Fussing and crying are later cues. The sooner you begin each feeding, the less likely you'll need to soothe a frantic baby.