How often should I breastfeed?
During the first few weeks you’re advised to feed your baby on demand rather than try to introduce a feeding routine. Your baby is your best guide - they’ll let you know how much they need. Try to pay attention to your baby rather than the clock when feeding and you may soon begin to notice a pattern emerging.
However, it’s worth remembering that any pattern may prove short-lived. As your baby goes through varying growth spurts, their appetite and consequently their feeding habits, will change. But the more you feed, the more milk you’ll produce, and you'll find your body automatically works on a supply-and-demand basis adapting to their needs.
Frequent feeding
It’s normal for newborn babies to need frequent feeds every two to three hours, in the early days it may be even more often. Breastmilk is very easily digested and their stomachs are quite small, so little and often is best. Night feeds, especially in the early weeks, are important as they are essential for your baby’s nutritional requirements and for maintaining your milk supply. The trick to getting through this period is to nap when your baby naps; you need plenty of rest to keep your breastmilk supply coming. If there are chores to be done, get someone to help or simply ignore them – what you're doing for your baby is more important.
A good sign your baby is getting enough milk is if they’re alert and full of energy. If you’re at all worried speak to your midwife, or give one of our expert team of experienced mums and a midwife a call on 0800 996 1000 anytime.
