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Breastfeeding and Supplementation Guide

Patient Education
Last reviewed

Follow this guide until you have a before and after breastfeeding weight that shows baby is transferring enough milk from the breast.

Feed your baby every 1 to 3 hours with feeding cues.

  • Wake baby at 3 hours if still asleep.
  • Feed your baby only for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. 

Supplement (give) your baby with expressed breast milk, donor milk, or formula after each feeding.

  • The amount your baby will take may vary, but your baby should take at least:
    • 10 to 20 ml the first 24 hours of life
    • 20 to 30 ml on days 2 and 3 of life
    • 30 to 40 ml on days 4 through 6 of life
  • As your baby grows, these amounts will be about:
    • 60 to 90 ml or 2 to 3 ounces at 1 to 3 weeks of age
    • 90 to 150 ml or 3 to 5 ounces at 3 weeks and up

Pump for 15 to 20 minutes after each feeding.

  • This is needed to build and protect your milk supply.
  • Do not stop pumping until baby is gaining well (about 1 ounce per day) without supplement.

Call 1-319-356-2294 if you have questions or want to make a breastfeeding appointment.

UI Health Care Breastfeeding Resources