Newborn Feeding Questions Every Parent Asks (and Reddit Can't Agree On)
From on-demand vs scheduled feeding to how often to feed your baby - we tackle the most confusing newborn feeding questions with evidence-based answers.
Quick Answer
Most newborns need to feed every 2-3 hours (8-12 times per day). Both on-demand and scheduled feeding can work - choose what feels right for your family. Watch for hunger cues and wet diapers as signs your baby is getting enough.
The Great Feeding Debate: On-Demand vs Scheduled
Walk into any parenting forum, and you'll find heated debates about newborn feeding schedules. Some parents swear by feeding on-demand (responsive feeding), while others prefer structured schedules. The truth? Both approaches can work beautifully - it's about finding what suits your baby and family.
On-Demand Feeding: The Natural Approach
What it is: Following your baby's hunger cues and feeding whenever they show signs of wanting to eat.
Hunger Cues to Watch For:
- • Rooting (turning head and opening mouth when cheek is touched)
- • Sucking motions or sounds
- • Hand-to-mouth movements
- • Smacking lips
- • Increased alertness and activity
- • Fussiness (crying is a late hunger cue)
Benefits: Helps establish milk supply, reduces stress for both baby and parent, and naturally adjusts to your baby's changing needs.
Challenges: Can feel unpredictable, especially in the early weeks when babies may want to cluster feed.
Scheduled Feeding: The Structured Approach
What it is: Feeding your baby at set intervals, typically every 2-3 hours.
Benefits: Provides predictability, can help with planning, and some parents find it reduces anxiety about whether baby is eating enough.
Challenges: May not always align with baby's natural rhythms, and rigid schedules can interfere with milk supply establishment in breastfeeding.
💡 Pro Tip: The Hybrid Approach
Many successful parents use a flexible schedule - aiming for feeds every 2-3 hours but watching for hunger cues in between. This gives structure while remaining responsive to baby's needs.
Key Takeaways
- • Both on-demand and scheduled feeding can work - choose what fits your family
- • Newborns typically need 8-12 feeds per day in the early weeks
- • Watch for hunger cues rather than just the clock
- • It's hard to overfeed a breastfed baby; formula babies need portion awareness
- • Wet diapers and weight gain are better indicators than feeding frequency
- • Trust your instincts, but don't hesitate to seek professional help