Feeding Your Newborn: Care Instructions
Bringing home your newborn baby (1 month old or younger) can be both exciting and scary. Getting to know
their eating needs may take time. But after a few months, most babies have a routine. You may have to learn
your baby's signals. But your baby will let you know when they are hungry and when they are full. Instead of
setting a strict feeding schedule, try to feed your newborn when they show signs of hunger.
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If your baby sucks on their hands, moves their lips, or turns their head, it may mean that they are
hungry. If they slow down while feeding, turn away, or unlatch, they may be full.
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For about the first 6 months, breast milk or infant formula can give your baby all the nutrition and
fluids they need.
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How can you feed your newborn?
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The first few days. For the first few days after birth, you may have
to wake your baby to feed. After that, your baby should start to form a more regular feeding schedule.
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The first few weeks. During the first 2 weeks, expect that your baby
will likely breastfeed at least 8 times in 24 hours. Talk to your doctor about whether your baby needs
a vitamin D supplement.
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The first year. Do not give any milk other than breast milk or infant
formula until your baby is 1 year of age.
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Feeding with formula. If your baby is drinking formula, they may have
slightly fewer feedings, at least 6 times in 24 hours.
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Holding your baby while feeding. If you are bottle feeding, hold your
baby. It's safer, and it can strengthen your bond with your baby.
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How can you introduce a bottle to a breastfed baby?
Experts recommend feeding your baby only breast milk for the first year. Using a bottle may help all
caregivers feed your baby. Talk to your doctor if you plan to switch from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding.
Here are some tips:
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Slowly reduce the number of times you breastfeed each day. Offer the bottle before each
breastfeeding. Each week, choose one more breastfeeding time to replace or shorten with
bottle-feeding.
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Wean your baby slowly. Pumping breast milk will allow you to save milk to use later in a bottle.
Using both breast- and bottle-feeding as needed may help you return to work or do other things.
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When should you call for help?
Watch closely
for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all
appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your
child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
Current as of: October 24, 2023
Content Version: 14.0
Care instructions adapted under license by your
healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask
your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of
this information.