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Breastfeeding Basics

Feeding Patterns: Baby's First Weeks

How often and for how long should you breastfeed? That depends on your baby, but generally, you should breastfeed as frequently as your baby indicates a desire. Watch for your baby's cues. Rooting (when your baby's mouth opens wide, ready to suckle) brushing a hand across his or her face, or making little sucking motions are all indications that it is time to breastfeed. Babies will demonstrate feeding cues for up to 30 minutes before they start crying. Whenever possible, try to respond to other feeding cues before the baby starts crying; crying can cause your baby to have an uncoordinated suck, making it more difficult to initiate feeding.

Most babies need to breastfeed at least eight to 12 times in a 24-hour period for the first few weeks. Generally, this equates to breastfeeding your baby every two to three hours for five to 15 minutes per breast. However, there aren't any "rules" about having to take both breasts at a feeding. Breastfeed as long as your baby wants to on the first breast. If your baby spontaneously comes off the breast or drowsily moves into non-nutritive "nursing" mode, he or she is probably done feeding. You can then burp the baby and offer the other breast. If your baby takes it, fine; if not, don't worry. Offer the other breast the next time you feed.

Keep in mind that your baby will breastfeed more frequently in response to sudden growth spurts. Babies can grow as much as 1/2 inch in a 24-hour period, so it is no wonder that they may need to breastfeed frequently for several days. During "increased appetite" days, set aside other commitments to focus your energies on your baby. And don't worry about having enough milk; milk supply works on the principle of supply and demand—your body will respond to the increased need.

The frequency of breastfeeding, particularly in the beginning stages, may require you to feed your baby several times during the night. To get some rest, or catch up on lost sleep, try to sleep whenever your baby does—even during the day. After the first four weeks, you may also consider using a pump to express your milk, so the baby's father or another caregiver can feed your baby breast milk from a bottle some of the time. This may be especially important if you plan to return to work. Keep in mind that within about six weeks, just about the length of time it takes for you to completely recover physically from the birth process, your baby will require fewer feedings, and in turn, you will get more rest.

This publication is for general informational purposes only and it is not intended to provide any reader with specific authority, advice or recommendations. Where you deem necessary, we suggest that you seek advice regarding your particular situation from the appropriate professional.