Newborns typically drink about 1.5 to 3 ounces of milk per feeding, increasing to 4-6 ounces by the time they are one month old.
Understanding Baby’s Milk Needs
As a new parent or caregiver, one of the most important things to monitor in a baby’s early development is their milk intake. Milk is the primary source of nutrition for newborns, and knowing how much milk a baby should drink at different stages can ensure they’re growing and developing properly. This can be particularly challenging for new parents who are adjusting to the demands of feeding and trying to figure out if their baby is getting enough nourishment.
In this article, we’ll explore how much milk a baby needs during various stages of development, factors that influence milk intake, signs of overfeeding or underfeeding, and tips for ensuring your baby’s milk consumption is on track.
How Much Milk Does A Newborn Drink?
In the first few days of life, a baby’s stomach is very small. Newborns typically drink small amounts of milk, but they need to eat frequently to support their rapid growth and development. At this early stage, breastfeeding or formula feeding provides all of the baby’s nutritional needs.
Day 1 to Day 3
In the first 24-48 hours after birth, a newborn’s stomach is the size of a marble, so they can only drink small amounts. Initially, a baby will drink about half an ounce (15 milliliters) per feeding. Over the next few days, as the baby’s stomach grows, the amount of milk they consume gradually increases.
On average, a newborn might drink around 1-2 ounces (30-60 milliliters) per feeding by the end of their third day, though this can vary from baby to baby.
Day 4 to 7
By day four, a baby’s stomach capacity increases, and their milk intake grows accordingly. At this stage, babies usually consume 2-3 ounces (60-90 milliliters) per feeding. It’s important to note that the baby’s milk intake will still be spread out over 8 to 12 feedings per day. Breastfed babies may need to nurse more frequently, as breast milk is digested quickly.
By the end of the first week, most babies will be drinking about 2.5 to 3 ounces (75-90 milliliters) per feeding. At this point, their stomach is capable of holding a little more milk, allowing them to go slightly longer between feedings.
How Much Milk Does a Baby Drink at One Month?
At one month of age, babies are growing rapidly, and their milk intake continues to increase. At this stage, babies typically drink 4 to 6 ounces (120-180 milliliters) of milk per feeding. This amount may vary slightly depending on whether the baby is breastfed or formula-fed, but the frequency of feedings may reduce slightly as the baby is able to consume larger amounts per feeding.
Breastfed Babies
For breastfeeding mothers, it’s harder to measure the exact amount of milk your baby is drinking, as breast milk volume can vary with each feeding. However, the average milk intake for a one-month-old breastfeeding baby is about 24-32 ounces (710-950 milliliters) per day. Since breast milk digests quickly, you may find that your baby needs to nurse every 2 to 3 hours during the day and sometimes more frequently at night.
Formula-Fed Babies
Formula-fed babies tend to drink more milk per feeding because formula is digested more slowly than breast milk. At one month, they typically drink between 4-6 ounces (120-180 milliliters) per feeding, with a total of about 24-32 ounces (710-950 milliliters) over the course of a 24-hour period. As your baby grows, they may gradually begin to go longer between feedings.
How Much Milk Does a Baby Drink at Two Months?
At two months of age, babies have developed more predictable feeding patterns. They typically consume 4 to 6 ounces (120-180 milliliters) of milk per feeding, with a total of 24 to 36 ounces (710-1060 milliliters) of milk per day. By this point, babies are more efficient feeders and may be able to take larger volumes of milk with fewer feedings, generally around 6 to 8 feedings per day.
At this stage, you’ll likely notice that your baby is starting to settle into more consistent feeding times, though the exact schedule can vary. Some babies may still cluster feed, meaning they will want to eat more frequently during certain periods of the day, especially during growth spurts.
How Much Milk Does a Baby Drink at Three to Four Months?
As your baby approaches 3 to 4 months, they may begin to develop more predictable and spaced-out feeding schedules. By this age, babies typically drink 5 to 7 ounces (150-210 milliliters) per feeding, with about 24 to 40 ounces (710-1180 milliliters) of milk per day. The frequency of feedings may decrease slightly, and some babies may begin to sleep for longer stretches at night, especially if they are getting adequate nourishment during the day.
While babies at this stage are still heavily reliant on milk for their nutrition, they may begin to show some interest in solid foods, depending on their developmental readiness. However, milk (breast or formula) remains their primary source of nutrition until at least 6 months of age.
How Much Milk Does a Baby Drink at Six Months?
By six months of age, babies are usually introduced to solid foods, but milk is still the most important source of nutrition. At this age, babies typically consume 6 to 8 ounces (180-240 milliliters) of milk per feeding, with a total intake of about 24 to 32 ounces (710-950 milliliters) per day. Even with the introduction of solids, babies will still need milk to meet their nutritional needs.
Breastfeeding at this stage may begin to occur less frequently, as babies become more accustomed to eating solid foods, but breast milk or formula should still make up the majority of their diet. The exact amount of milk your baby drinks will depend on their appetite, growth, and feeding preferences.
How Much Milk Does a Baby Drink at Nine to Twelve Months?
At 9 to 12 months, babies are often eating a wider variety of solids, and their milk intake may decrease slightly, as solids begin to make up a larger portion of their diet. However, milk is still a critical part of their nutrition during this time. Babies at this age typically drink 16 to 24 ounces (470-710 milliliters) of milk per day, spread out over 3 to 4 feedings.
Breastfeeding can continue during this period, or you may choose to transition to formula or even whole milk if your baby is ready and your pediatrician approves. Most pediatricians recommend introducing whole milk around 12 months, but this should be done gradually and based on your baby’s needs.
Table: Baby Milk Intake by Age
|
Age |
Milk Per Feeding |
Total Milk Per Day |
|
Newborn (0-3 days) |
0.5 – 1 ounce (15-30ml) |
8 – 12 feedings, small amounts |
|
Day 4 – 7 |
2 – 3 ounces (60-90ml) |
8 – 12 feedings, 30-90ml per feeding |
|
1 Month |
4 – 6 ounces (120-180ml) |
24 – 32 ounces (710-950ml) |
|
2 Months |
4 – 6 ounces (120-180ml) |
24 – 36 ounces (710-1060ml) |
|
3-4 Months |
5 – 7 ounces (150-210ml) |
24 – 40 ounces (710-1180ml) |
|
6 Months |
6 – 8 ounces (180-240ml) |
24 – 32 ounces (710-950ml) |
|
9-12 Months |
6 – 8 ounces (180-240ml) |
16 – 24 ounces (470-710ml) |
Factors Affecting Baby’s Milk Intake
While these general guidelines offer a good overview of how much milk your baby should be drinking, it’s important to recognize that each baby is different. Several factors can affect your baby’s milk intake, including:
1. Baby’s Growth Spurts
Growth spurts are common during the first year of life, and they often lead to temporary increases in your baby’s appetite. During these times, your baby may want to feed more frequently or consume larger amounts of milk. Growth spurts typically occur around 2-3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months of age.
2. Baby’s Health
Sickness, teething, or changes in routine can temporarily affect how much milk your baby drinks. If your baby is unwell or uncomfortable, they may feed less or more than usual. Always monitor their overall well-being and consult with a pediatrician if you're concerned.
3. Feeding Method
Whether you’re breastfeeding or formula feeding can affect how much milk your baby drinks. Breastfed babies may nurse more frequently but drink smaller amounts per session, while formula-fed babies may consume more milk per feeding. Both methods are nutritionally sufficient when done properly.
4. Transition to Solid Foods
Around 6 months, babies begin eating solids. As they start to consume more solid food, their milk intake might decrease slightly. However, milk should still be the primary source of nutrition until at least 12 months of age.
Conclusion – How Much Milk Does A Baby Drink?
Understanding how much milk your baby needs is crucial for their development. The amount of milk will vary by age and individual needs, but typically, babies drink between 1 to 8 ounces per feeding depending on their stage of development. By keeping track of your baby’s milk intake, observing their feeding cues, and adjusting based on growth spurts or health changes, you can ensure they are getting the right amount of nourishment.
If you ever feel uncertain about your baby’s milk intake or notice significant changes in feeding habits, don’t hesitate to consult your pediatrician. They can provide valuable advice and reassurance, ensuring your baby’s feeding routine is on track for healthy growth and development.