Frequent feeds in newborn: Is this normal?
My three-week-old son doesn't seem to be satisfied with his formula. He drinks three ounces every two hours. Feeding takes almost an hour. Is there anything that I can do to help him stay satisfied?
Question:Sue Gilbert
Sue Gilbert works as a consulting nutritionist. For many years she worked with Earth's Best Organic Baby Food, integrating nutrition and... Read more
Your son is eating and acting like a typical newborn. Newborns have tiny stomachs that can only hold small amounts of food. That's why they need to be fed often. It is normal for newborns to be fed 8 to 12 times a day during the first month. That works out to once every two to three hours, which is exactly what your son is doing.
As he grows, so will his stomach and then the frequency of feeding will go down. By four months he may be eating only eight times a day.
There is no way you can expedite the process. The best you can do is be responsive to his needs, feed him when he is hungry and be patient. Allow someone else to help with the feedings so that you can get a good stretch of rest. That alone will make a big difference!
By the way ... congratulations on your new son!
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