collaborative post // Breastfeeding your newborn is an important part of being a new parent. However, we know that this is not always possible, and formula can play an important role in keeping your baby healthy and happy.
However, it’s easy to order too much formula, and have it all go to waste. That doesn’t have to be the case, though, and you can actually sell your extra formula to parents who need it. Just visit Sell Formula to find out more, and you could start earning some money of formula that you don’t need.
Whether you need formula or not, breastfeeding can be a challenging time. That’s why we are going to go over what every new parent wants to know.
How Often Should a Newborn Breastfeed?
It’s beneficial to breastfeed a newborn as soon as you can after giving birth. This will ensure that the baby gets everything they need.
In the hours afterward, it is expected to breastfeed a newborn between 8 and 12 times in a given 24-hours. This means that you are likely to be breastfeeding every 2–3 hours for the first few weeks. In the first week after giving birth, it is considered normal for breastfeeding to take place every 1–2 hours.
This will depend entirely on your baby. Every baby is different, and some will stay satiated for longer than others. It’s better to not have a schedule, but rather determine if your baby is hungry or not, and go from there.
Cluster Feeding
This refers to your baby feeding a number of times very close together, then going hours without feeding. It’s normal, so don’t worry! Whether your newborn sticks to a schedule of their own making, or cluster feeds, they should be satiated by the end of it.
How Long Does a Feeding Last?
This will depend on you and your baby. Sessions can last anywhere between 15–45 minutes, but will always vary. It might even be longer than that.
Just keep breastfeeding until your baby is done. Look for signs such as a relaxed hand rather than a fist. Your baby will also slow down on sucking and swallowing, and lose interest as they get full.
How Can You Tell When a Newborn is Hungry?
There are numerous signs to look out for to tell if a baby is hungry. It might be more difficult with some babies than others, though, so you will always need to remain vigilant.
Below are some of the more common signs to look out for that indicate if a baby is hungry.
- Smacking their lips
- Nuzzling against mother’s breasts
- The rooting reflex
- Sucking on their hand, your finger, arm, or even a shirt a lot
- Opening their mouth constantly
- Abrupt cries at a low pitch
- Sucking on their tongue or lip
There are a number of other potential signs to look out for that are mentioned on the CDC website, but the above are the most common.
How Long Should You Breastfeed For?
It is advised to breastfeed for at least the first six months from birth. However, we are aware that is not always an option, and using formulas is absolutely fine!
At six months old, solid food can start being introduced into the diet. Milk should still be the primary source of nutrients, though. Slowly start introducing baby food into the mix.
There is no time limit for how long you should breastfeed for. Many people continue breastfeeding for a year or more. You will need to decide what works for you, and see whether your baby starts losing interest.
When Shouldn’t You Breastfeed?
It is never recommended to breastfeed if you are on particular medications, or if you have particular illnesses. As it can be difficult to know, you should always consult with your doctor to find out if breastfeeding will be safe or not.
If you or the baby is sick with something like the common cold, there is no reason not to breastfeed. However, if you need rest, then you can pump milk for someone else to bottle feed the baby. You should never have to feel guilty for taking time to take care of yourself, too.
Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding is a journey that many new parents go on, but not everyone chooses, or is able to do it. Whether you are breastfeeding or using formula to keep your baby happy, as long as you are taking care of their needs, you are doing a great job.
