In the first few weeks, the average baby needs to be fed about 8-12 times a day. Basically, they need two to three fluid ounces of formula every three hours.
2. Why do they eat so frequently?
Their tiny stomachs can't hold much yet. After a few weeks, their newborn feeding schedule will change, and they’ll cut down on the number of feedings and consume more each time.
3. How do I know when my newborn’s hungry?
Does your baby wake up and look alert? Put their hands or fists in their mouth? Make sucking noises? Or whimper and move their arms and legs? These can be signs your baby’s ready to eat ↗.
4. How do I know when they’re full?
When they close their mouth, stop sucking, or turn away, they might be done. Don't try to get them to finish a bottle if they’re full. By the way, it's normal for your newborn to be hungrier at some feedings than others. They’ll tell you how much they need and there are other signs of a full baby ↗ you can look out for.
5. How can I tell when my baby’s eaten enough?
The best way to tell if your baby’s getting enough to eat is by having your doctor monitor their height and weight at visits. Both should be measured at every visit. Signs you can look for are right in their diaper. Around six wet diapers and one or more stools per day can show they’re eating well.
Feeding your newborn is a great time to bond and knowing more about your newborn’s formula-feeding schedule can help alleviate some of the feeding stress. We’re here if your little one is running into feeding difficulties ↗ too. Don’t worry, there are tips for feeding issues you may come across.
“It will all work out. You will get the hang of this & there is no such thing as a bad parent, as long as you try everything with love first!!” – Enfamil® mom
