Bottle Feeding Question - How Much Should My Newborn Eat? | DadHQ

Bottle Feeding Question - How Much Should My Newborn Eat?

3d ago1 min read

Our daughter is 5 days old and we're doing formula because of some complications with breastfeeding. The hospital said about 1-2 ounces every 2-3 hours but she seems to want more. She'll take 3 ounces and still look hungry. Are we supposed to let her eat as much as she wants or stick to what the doctor said? Don't want to overfeed her but also don't want her to be hungry. Any tips from guys who've been through this?

6 comments165 views

Comments(6)

BBrad H.Regular3d ago

Don't stress too much about hitting exact amounts. Our pediatrician told us babies are pretty good at self-regulating, so if she's not finishing bottles one feeding, that's fine. Just keep track of wet diapers and you'll know she's getting enough.

MMike R.New Dad3d ago

Five days in and you're already thinking about the details, that's good parenting right there. We did formula with our second too and honestly after a week or two it becomes second nature. You got this.

JJoey M.New Dad3d ago

Those hospital numbers are solid. With my daughter we just followed that 1-2 oz guideline and she let us know when she wanted more by going crazy on the bottle. Trust your gut and watch for her cues.

BBrianRegular2d ago

We dealt with breastfeeding complications too and switched to formula, no shame in that game. Your daughter will be fine. Just make sure you're tracking pee and poop diapers like it's your job, because it kind of is for the first bit.

BBrandonNew Dad2d ago

Congrats on the daughter! At 5 days old you're probably looking at 1-2 ounces per feeding, but honestly every baby is different. Our pediatrician said to follow the hunger cues and the output numbers, not some magic formula. How many wet diapers is she having?

MMarcusNew Dad2d ago

Five days in is so early, you're probably still figuring out the rhythm. Our lactation consultant told us most newborns eat every 2-3 hours, like 0.5 to 1 ounce at that age. But really call your pediatrician if you're unsure, that's what they're there for.