As often as your baby needs to – this is called “feeding on demand” and frequency will vary. This will ensure you produce enough milk to meet your baby’s needs. The more you nurse, the more milk you produce.

How often your baby needs to feed and the amount each time will change as your baby grows and develops. A newborn will need to feed every 1.5 to 3 hours, perhaps having quite brief feeds. An older baby will feed less often but for longer.

If your baby is having plenty of wet nappies in a 24-hour period and is generally content, then feeding is going well.

If you ever have any concerns regarding your baby and breastfeeding, contact your baby health professional or alternatively contact the Australian Breastfeeding Association representative in your area. This service is free.