There is no set amount of time a baby should breastfeed for, as every baby is different and may have varying needs. However, on average, a newborn baby may nurse for about 10-15 minutes on each breast, and older babies may nurse for 5-20 minutes on each breast. It's important to remember that breastfeeding is a supply and demand process, so the more a baby nurses, the more milk the mother will produce. The baby should be allowed to nurse until they are fully satisfied, which is indicated by them releasing the breast on their own and appearing content. 



How often should I breastfeed my baby?


It is recommended that newborns breastfeed 8-12 times in 24 hours. As babies get older, they may nurse less frequently, but it varies from baby to baby. It's important to feed on demand, meaning when the baby shows signs of hunger such as rooting or sucking on their hands. Paying attention to your baby's hunger cues is the best indicator of how often to nurse, as frequency and length of feedings may change as your baby grows and develops. It's also important to remember that breastfeeding is a supply and demand process, so the more a baby nurses, the more milk the mother will produce

how often to feed milk


For a newborn, it is recommended to breastfeed 8-12 times in 24 hours. As the baby grows and their stomach capacity increases, they may start nursing less frequently and have longer intervals between feedings. This can vary greatly from baby to baby, but a general guideline for infants is to feed every 2-3 hours.

If you are formula feeding, the frequency may vary depending on the age and size of the baby, as well as the type of formula you are using. Newborns will usually feed every 2-3 hours, while older babies may be able to go 4-5 hours between feedings. It's important to pay attention to your baby's hunger cues and feed them when they show signs of hunger.

In both cases, it's always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician for guidance on the specific needs of your baby.

How much milk does a baby need in the first days after birth


In the first few days after birth, newborns will typically consume small amounts of breast milk or formula, as their stomachs are very small and they only need a small amount of milk to meet their nutritional needs.

In the case of breastfeeding, the amount of milk a baby needs in the first days will depend on the individual baby, but on average, newborns may take in about 1-2 ounces (30-60 mL) of milk per feeding in the first 24 hours. This amount will gradually increase as the baby grows and their stomach capacity expands.

If you are formula feeding, the amount of formula a baby needs will depend on the type of formula you are using, as well as the age and size of the baby. Your pediatrician can help you determine the appropriate amount of formula for your baby based on their individual needs.

Regardless of whether you are breastfeeding or formula feeding, it's important to feed your baby whenever they show signs of hunger, and to allow them to nurse or drink as much as they need to feel satisfied

How to know that the child's appetite is


  • A baby's hunger cues can be subtle, but there are a few signs that indicate a baby is ready to eat:
  • Rooting: When a baby moves their head from side to side and opens their mouth, it's a sign that they're searching for food.
  • Sucking on their hands: If a baby is sucking on their hands or fists, it could be a sign that they're hungry.
  • Crying: Crying is often the last sign that a baby is hungry, but it's a clear indication that they need to be fed.
  • Smacking their lips: If a baby is smacking their lips or making sucking noises, it could mean they're ready to eat.
  • Increased alertness: A baby that is more active and alert than usual may also be hungry.

It's important to keep in mind that hunger cues can vary from baby to baby, and some babies may show several signs at once while others may only show one or two. It's also possible for a baby to nurse even when they're not necessarily hungry, for comfort or because they just want to be close to their mother. If you're unsure, offer the breast or bottle, and let your baby decide if they're hungry and how much they want to eat.