Newborn Feeding First Month (0-1 Month): How Much, How Often, and What to Expect
- Grace Thompson
- Sep 4
- 2 min read
Updated: 21 hours ago
Why Newborn Feeding Matters in the First Month
Your baby’s first month is all about adjustment — both for you and for your newborn. Nutrition during this stage is critical, as babies double their birth weight in just a few months. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and CDC stress that breast milk or formula should be your baby’s only source of nutrition at this age. No water, juice, or solid foods should be given.
How Often Should a Newborn Eat?
According to HealthyChildren.org and the CDC:
Breastfed babies usually feed 8–12 times in 24 hours (every 1.5 to 3 hours).
Formula-fed babies eat every 2–4 hours, typically 2–3 ounces per feeding.
Nighttime feedings are expected — newborn stomachs are very small, so they need frequent nutrition.
Tip: Don’t watch the clock alone. Respond to hunger cues such as:
Rooting or turning their head toward your breast
Sucking on their hands
Fussiness or restlessness
How Much Should a Newborn Eat?
In the first few days, babies may take in ½–1 ounce per feeding.
By the end of the first week, this increases to 2–3 ounces every 2–3 hours.
By the end of the first month, most babies take 3–4 ounces per feeding, about every 3–4 hours.
(Source: Stanford Children’s Health & UC Davis Feeding Guide)
Signs Your Baby is Getting Enough
The Mayo Clinic and AAP highlight these healthy signs:
6+ wet diapers and 3+ bowel movements per day by the end of the first week
Steady weight gain after initial weight loss in the first few days
Content, alert periods after feeding
Tips for Success in the First Month
Breastfeeding moms: Start skin-to-skin early, and feed on demand to establish supply.
Formula-feeding parents: Always prepare formula as instructed, and never prop bottles.
Keep track of feeding times and diaper changes — apps like Cubtale make this easier.
Avoid giving honey, water, or solids at this stage.
Final Thoughts
Feeding a newborn in the first month may feel overwhelming, but following your baby’s cues and trusted medical guidance will set the foundation for healthy growth. Whether breastfeeding, formula feeding, or both, remember that responsive feeding and consistency matter most. And if you’re unsure, your pediatrician or a lactation consultant can provide tailored support.
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