Women's Health

Maternity

When Should I Feed My Baby?

You should feed your baby whenever your baby is hungry. Most babies will start to show signs of hunger before they cry. These signs may include putting their hands to their mouth, moving their heads around a lot (called rooting), and making mouthing movements. Watch for your baby's signs. Feed your baby when you start to see these early cues of hunger, if possible. The baby will feed better and swallow less air. If your baby does start to cry, gently try to calm your baby first, then feed her.

Breastfeeding

Breast fed babies may feed every one and one-half to three hours during the day. Some babies may go a little longer at night. In the first few weeks you need to feed your baby often. If your baby does not wake every 3-4 hours during the day, wake the baby gently to feed her. Your baby can be encouraged to feed by gently stroking her lower lip. Allow your baby to feed on one breast until he or she comes off on her own or stops sucking before switching sides.

Bottle Feeding

Bottle-fed babies can go a little longer between feedings, usually every 3 to 4 hours, because formula takes longer to digest. Through the night, do not let your baby go longer than 5 to 6 hours between feedings. Ultimately - follow your baby's doctor's instructions and watch for signs that your baby is hungry.

Night Feedings

Babies usually do not start sleeping through the night until they are closer to 14 lbs. Each baby is different, however. Most babies will need to feed at least once or twice during the night until they grow older.

If your baby is awake more at night, you may try to: