1. How Often to Feed:
- Breastfed babies: Typically every 2–3 hours (8–12 times a day).
- Formula-fed babies: Every 3–4 hours (6–8 times a day).
- Newborns have tiny stomachs, so they’ll eat small amounts but often.
2. Hunger Cues:
Learn to spot when your baby is hungry before they cry:
- Rooting (turning their head toward your hand or chest looking for food).
- Sucking motions or putting their hand to their mouth.
- Becoming fussy or alert.
3. How Much to Feed:
- First few days: 0.5–1 ounce per feeding (their stomach is the size of a cherry!).
- By the end of the first week: 1–3 ounces per feeding.
- By 1 month: 3–4 ounces per feeding.
- Your baby’s appetite will grow as they grow—trust them to guide you on how much they need.
4. Signs Baby is Full:
- Turning away from the bottle or breast.
- Slowing or stopping sucking.
- Relaxing their body or falling asleep.
5. Safe Bottle-Feeding Tips (If Using Formula or Expressed Milk):
- Always hold your baby while feeding—never prop a bottle.
- Follow the mixing instructions exactly for formula.
- Test the temperature on your wrist before feeding (it should feel warm, not hot).
- Discard unfinished formula after 1 hour.
- Clean and sterilize bottles and nipples regularly.
6. Burping After Feeding:
Newborns often swallow air while feeding, which can make them uncomfortable. Burp them mid-feeding and at the end:
- Hold them upright against your chest and gently pat their back.
- Lay them across your lap, tummy down, and rub their back.
- Sit them upright, supporting their chin and chest, and pat their back.
7. Growth Spurts Will Affect Feeding:
Babies have growth spurts around 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. They might feed more often or seem fussier during these times. It’s normal and temporary.
8. Spit-Up and Reflux Are Normal (To an Extent):
- Spitting up is common as your baby’s digestive system matures. Feed smaller amounts more frequently if it’s excessive.
- Call your pediatrician if:
- Baby is projectile vomiting.
- Baby is losing weight.
- There’s blood in the spit-up.
9. Watch for Dehydration or Overfeeding:
- Signs of dehydration: Fewer than 6 wet diapers a day, dry mouth, or a sunken soft spot.
- Signs of overfeeding: Frequent spit-ups, gassiness, or crankiness.
10. Support Yourself Too:
- Feeding is a bonding time, but it can also be tiring—ask for help if needed.
- Whether you’re breastfeeding or formula-feeding, you’re doing what’s best for your baby. Trust your instincts!
If you have specific concerns, like breastfeeding challenges, formula types, or allergies, let me know—I can guide you further!
