Newborn Feeding Guide: What to Expect in the First Few Weeks

Welcoming a new baby is exciting and overwhelming in equal measure, and feeding is one of the areas parents ask us about most. In the first days and weeks, newborn feeding can feel constant and unpredictable. At Central Health London, we want you to feel informed, supported and confident about what is normal.

This guide explains how often newborns feed, how much milk they need (breast or formula), cluster feeding, night feeding and signs they are feeding well. It also includes a practical checklist to help you prepare.

Feeding in the First Few Days

The first 48 to 72 hours are a time of adjustment. Babies feed often, sometimes for very short periods.

Typical patterns

• Most breastfed newborns feed 8 to 12 times in 24 hours

• Feeds may occur every 2 to 3 hours, sometimes more

• Feeds may be brief as your baby learns to latch

• Your baby’s stomach is tiny, so frequent small feeds are normal

• Wake your baby for feeds if they sleep longer than 3 hours in these first days

Your midwife or paediatrician will assess feeding and hydration during early checks.

When Your Milk Comes In (Day 3–5)

As milk volume increases:

• Babies continue to feed 8–12 times a day

• Some feed every 1–2 hours during cluster feeding

• Cluster feeding is normal and helps regulate milk supply

• Feeding remains on-demand rather than on a strict schedule

This phase varies for every family, but the frequency is not a sign of low supply. It is simply how newborns feed.

Formula Feeding in the Newborn Period

Formula-fed newborns typically feed:

• 30–60 ml per feed

• Every 3–4 hours

• The amount of milk babies drink varies widely. We would recommend following the guidance on the product packaging  For those parents who need a volume to compare their baby’s feeding to, a typical feed volume per day might vary between 120 and 180 ml per kilogram per day

Your baby’s appetite will grow gradually during the first month.

Night Feeds: What Is Normal?

Newborns need to feed frequently overnight. Expect to wake every 2–3 hours.

Do not let your baby go longer than 3–4 hours without a feed in the first few days until weight gain is well established.

Night feeding improves:

• Milk supply (if breastfeeding)

• Hydration

• Growth

• Your baby’s sleep–wake regulation

Night waking is normal and protective for newborns.

How to Know Your Baby Is Getting Enough Milk

The most reliable signs are:

Wet nappies

By day 5, your baby should have 6 or more wet nappies a day.

Dirty nappies

• Breastfed babies may poo after every feed

• Formula-fed babies poo less often but more predictably

Weight gain

Your midwife or paediatrician will check this regularly.

Comfort after some feeds

Babies may still cluster feed or fuss, but periods of contentment are reassuring.

Feeding Essentials Checklist

Having these items ready can make feeding smoother:

• Bottles and teats (even if breastfeeding)

• Bottle steriliser

• Bottle warmer

• Breast pump (hospital-grade if breastfeeding)

• Nursing pillow

• Formula milk (if using, or as backup)

• Burp cloths and bibs

When to Seek Advice

Please contact your midwife or paediatrician if:

• Your baby is very sleepy and difficult to wake for feeds

• You notice fewer than 6 wet nappies a day after day 5

• Your baby is not gaining weight

• Feeding is painful, stressful or consistently difficult

• You are worried — even if you are not sure why

Our CHL paediatric and maternity teams offer feeding support at any stage.

FAQs

How often should a newborn feed?

Most newborns feed 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. This usually means feeding every 2 to 3 hours, including overnight. Short and frequent feeds are normal while your baby learns to latch and your milk supply becomes established.

How much formula does a newborn need?

Formula-fed newborns typically take 30 to 60 ml per feed every 3 to 4 hours. Daily intake usually totals 120 to 180 ml per kilogram of body weight. Appetite increases gradually during the first month.

What is cluster feeding?

Cluster feeding is when a newborn feeds very frequently over a short period, often in the late afternoon or evening. It is normal and helps regulate milk supply. Babies may feed every 1 to 2 hours during these periods.

How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?

Signs include at least 6 wet nappies a day by day five, regular dirty nappies, steady weight gain and appearing settled after some feeds. Nappies and weight checks are the most reliable indicators.

Do newborns need to be woken for feeds?

Yes, in the first few days. Wake your baby every 3 hours to feed until weight gain and feeding are well established. After this, most babies naturally wake for feeds.