Your Top Feeding Questions Answered
New Parent Series: Part 1
Hey, new parents! First off, congratulations on the arrival of your little bundle of joy. Whether you're staring into those sleepy eyes at 3 a.m. or marveling at their tiny fingers for the hundredth time, one thing is clear—your world has officially changed.
Welcome to our New Parent Series—a blog collection created just for you. This series is about answering the questions that keep you up at night (sometimes literally!). From feeding to sleep, diapering to developmental milestones, we're diving into the things new parents Google at 2:00 a.m., so you don't have to feel like you're figuring it out alone.
Let's start with one of the biggest (and sometimes most confusing) topics: feeding your baby. If you've ever wondered, "Am I doing this right?" — you're in the right place.
"How Often Should I Feed My Baby?"
In the beginning, your baby's tummy is tiny—think marble-sized! That's why they need to eat frequently, usually every 2 to 3 hours, around the clock. This goes for both breastfeeding and formula-feeding.
As your baby grows, their tummy grows too, which means longer stretches between feedings. You'll soon learn to spot their hunger cues: rooting (turning their head toward your chest or a bottle), sucking on hands, or becoming fussy.
Want to read more?
Check out La Leche League International for breastfeeding guidance and HealthyChildren.org from the AAP for general feeding tips.
"How Much Should My Baby Be Eating?"
There's no one-size-fits-all answer here, but newborns typically take in small amounts at each feeding. For formula-fed babies, your pediatrician can give you guidance based on your baby's weight and age. Breastfed babies are excellent self-regulators—they'll let go when they're full.
Helpful Resource: The AAP's feeding guide offers charts to help you understand how much is enough.
"Is My Baby Getting Enough Milk?"
This is the question for many breastfeeding parents, and it's totally normal to worry. Here are some reassuring signs:
6–8 wet diapers/day after your milk comes in
Regular bowel movements
Contentment after feeds
Steady weight gain
Hearing and swallowing during nursing
Still unsure? Contact a certified lactation consultant through the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA).
"When Can I Start Solid Foods?"
The magic age is around 6 months, but readiness matters more than the calendar. Signs include:
Sitting up with support
Good head and neck control
Interest in food
Loss of the tongue-thrust reflex
Don't rush it—introducing solids too soon can interfere with milk/formula intake and lead to digestive issues.
Explore more: AAP's Starting Solid Foods guide has tips.
"Are Hiccups and Spitting Up Normal?"
Absolutely. Hiccups are harmless and pretty adorable (unless it's 3 a.m., we know). Small amounts of spit-up are also very common, especially after feeding.
But call your pediatrician if:
Your baby is spitting up forcefully
Seems uncomfortable
Isn't gaining weight
Want to dig deeper? KidsHealth has trustworthy info on baby digestion.
"Should I Wake My Baby to Eat?"
Short answer: Sometimes, yes. In the newborn stage, especially if your baby is underweight, jaundiced, or sleepy, you might need to wake them every 2–3 hours for feedings. Once they're back to birth weight and your doctor gives the okay, follow their lead—even if it means more prolonged stretches of sleep (yay!).
Pro tip: Always ask your pediatrician about what's best for your baby's specific needs.
"Can My Newborn Have Water?"
In short: Nope. Babies under 6 months should get all their hydration from breast milk or formula. Water can actually be dangerous at this age, as it may disrupt their delicate electrolyte balance.
Learn more: The AAP's hydration guidelines on HealthyChildren.org are a great reference.
Feeding your baby can initially feel overwhelming, but here's the truth: you're already doing better than you think. Every baby is different, and learning your baby's rhythms takes time and patience. Trust your instincts, lean on trusted resources, and don't hesitate to ask for help.
Stay tuned for New Parent Series: Part 2, where we'll tackle baby sleep—yes, we're going there next!
