How Often Do Newborns Get Hungry?

Average Feeding Schedule

• While all babies are different, knowing how much your little one should take in during a 24-hour period can give you a better idea as to how often she needs to eat. The Mayo Clinic website notes that most babies need eight to 12 feedings in a day, which works out to a feeding ever two to three hours. At first, your newborn may only be able to consume 3 to 4 ounces at a time, graduating to larger amounts as her stomach grows. Don't expect to set your watch by your baby's feeding, however -- one day she might want a feeding every three hours, while the next day she's hungry every two hours instead.

Breastmilk Versus Formula

• The timing of your newborn's feedings has a lot to do with how you feed your little one. According to child development experts at the Kids Health website, breast milk digests more easily than formula, which means you'll need to feed more often if you choose to breastfeed your baby. You may have an easier time knowing exactly how much formula your little one takes in as well, thanks to the measurements on the sides of most bottles. During breastfeeding, your baby may fluctuate in how much milk she consumes, which can also shorten or lengthen feeding intervals accordingly.

Nighttime Feedings

• You'll need to continue to feed your little one throughout the night. While you might like some semblance of a schedule, feed your little one on demand during the first few months. She's too young to understand waiting until a scheduled feeding to eat, and the amount she consumed at her last feeding might not be enough to sustain her until a scheduled feeding. After a few months, your newborn's feeding schedule will naturally stabilize and you'll be better able to predict when she's hungry.

Signs of Hunger

• Watch your baby's movements, and you'll be able to tell when she's hungry. While crying is a dead giveaway that she's ready to eat, try touching a finger to her cheek. If she turns toward your finger, she's probably ready for a feeding -- it's a reflex known as "rooting." She might also make sucking sounds and motions. When she's satiated, she'll turn away from the breast or bottle and you can watch for the signs that she's hungry again in a few hours.