How many times a day should mothers breastfeed?

At first, you need to feed your baby at least eight to twelve times as often as 24 hours (even more if he wants to) and dry at least one breast at a time. You can also split up and feed every 2-3 hours (since the first feeding). However, do not depend on the clock but follow your baby's needs (unless your baby overslept without feeding).

Don't worry if your baby is feeding too many times

Remember that each baby's feeding pattern is different: some babies will need to feed more often (one and a half to two hours at a time); but another baby is less frequent (feed every three hours). If your baby is on a continuous feeder pattern, your baby will feed again in almost an hour - and this won't give your breasts time to rest. But don't worry. This frequency of dense feeding is only temporary. When your baby needs more milk and you can make more milk, the resting time between feedings gets longer.

The frequency of breastfeeding is also very variable and varies from baby to baby. Some babies understand very well the mother's suffering only ask for food every 1.5 hours a day, but the time between feedings during the night will last up to three to four hours. You will be a very lucky parent if your child is this type. All you need to do is look at your baby's diaper carefully to make sure he gets enough milk for the time he sleeps. Other babies are like having an invisible timer embedded in their little body and waking up every two and a half hours to ask for food, whether it's mid-morning or midnight. Even these babies after a few months - at the beginning of the day-night distinction - will develop a happier breastfeeding schedule for parents. Parents will now have a longer rest between feedings each night.

Do not feed your baby a few times

There is a great temptation to lower the frequency of breastfeeding, but resist it. Your milk formation will be influenced by the frequency, intensity and duration of your breast-feeding, especially during the first weeks of your baby's life. Cutting down on feedings as needed will quickly destroy your baby's milk supply. So let your baby sleep and only wake him up when his last meal has passed three hours so he can continue to suck.