One of the most common questions I hear during my antenatal and postnatal consultations, is “How long should each feed take?” This is a valid concern for many breastfeeding mothers, whether they are first-time mothers or have been breastfeeding for a while. The answer, however, isn’t straightforward. Feeding times can vary significantly from one baby to another, from one feeding session to the next, and even as your baby grows.
In this blog, I’ll explore why you shouldn’t be too focused on the clock, the factors that affect how long a feeding session may take, and, as usual I will provide you with my top 5 tips to ensure your baby is feeding effectively.
Understanding Feeding Times: What’s “Normal”?
For many babies, especially during their first few weeks of breastfeeding, feeding sessions can take a long time. Newborns typically take longer because they’re still learning how to breastfeed and may not be efficient yet. As babies grow, they usually become quicker and more efficient at feeding. So, anything between 5 and 60 minutes could be considered a normal breastfeeding session.
I’m sick and tired of hearing mothers being told that feeds should last a minimum of 20 minutes, and that if the baby didn’t feed for this amount of time, they won’t get enough hindmilk, leading to issues like weight loss or insufficient fat intake.
It’s important to remember that there is no “right” length for a breastfeeding session. Setting strict time limits can cause unnecessary stress for mothers if they feel their babies aren’t feeding long enough.
Instead of focusing on the clock, it’s better to look for signs that your baby is feeding effectively. If you’re concerned about how much your baby is taking in, these signs can reassure you that your baby is getting enough milk, regardless of how long they spend at the breast.
Factors that Affect Feeding Times
The length of nursing sessions can vary depending on your baby’s age, but also other factors such as how efficient they are at nursing, how quickly your let-down reflex occurs, and the time of day. Here are some factors that can influence how long your baby make take to feed:
1. Age of the baby: Newborns usually take longer to feed compared to older babies. As mentioned, they need to learn how to latch and nurse efficiently. As they grow, they become more coordinated and may start feeding faster, spending less time at the breast.
2. Latch and milk transfer efficiency: If your baby has a shallow latch or struggles with milk transfer due to tension, a tongue-tie, or other factors, they may tire more easily, making feeds longer. They might also be unable to drain the breast efficiently.
3. Let-down or milk flow: If you have a fast let-down (overactive let-down), your baby may finish feeding more quickly. However, if the milk flows more slowly, they may need to work harder and take more time to get the amount they need. This is why it’s important to let the baby unlatch spontaneously when they’re done. Sometimes, we may unlatch them prematurely, thinking they’re only sucking for comfort, but they could still be working on getting the next let-down.
4. Time of the day: Babies’ feeding patterns can change depending on the time of day. They often want to breastfeed for longer periods, especially during mid-afternoon or early evening, when they may be more tired.
5. Breastfeeding crisis or growth spurts: During breastfeeding crises or growth spurts, babies may want to nurse more frequently and for longer periods as they work to increase your milk supply to meet their growing needs. Although this may cause frustration or concern for some mothers, remember that it’s normal and temporary. These phases usually last a few days before things return to normal.
My Top 5 Tips to Ensure Effective Breastfeeding Sessions
As mentioned earlier, it’s more important to observe for signs that your baby is feeding effectively rather than how long they stay at the breast. Here are my top tips to help you to ensure that your baby is feeding efficiently:
1. Focus on a good latch: A proper latch is key to effective milk transfer. A baby can spend hours at the breast without getting much milk if the latch isn’t correct. Ensure your baby’s mouth covers part of the areola, not just the nipple. Both lips should be turned out, and feeding should be pain-free. Also, rule out conditions like tensions or tongue-ties, which can affect your baby’s ability to feed efficiently.
2. Change sides: Let your baby determine when a feeding session is over. Offer both breasts during each session. It’s fine if they seem satisfied after just one breast, but you can offer the second to see if they’re interested. Some babies may fall asleep on one side but wake up and continue feeding when offered the other. If your baby seems fussy on one breast, try switching to the other and then back again if necessary.
3. Avoid timing or scheduling feeds: Breastfeeding should be on demand. This is the best way for your body to regulate your milk supply based on your baby’s needs. Offer the breast whenever your baby shows hunger cues, such as rooting, sucking on their hands, or becomes fussy.
4. Listen for audible swallowing: One of the clearest signs that your baby is feeding effectively is the sound of swallowing. After latching, you should hear them swallow after a few sucks, especially after your milk let-down reflex occurs. Keep in mind that babies alternate between rapid and short sucking to stimulate milk flow, and slower, deeper suctions to swallow. You can help them by performing breast compressions if you see that the sucking becomes slow or pauses are too long, encouraging them to continue feeding.
5. Don’t hesitate to seek support: If you’re concerned about how long your baby is feeding, struggling with a proper latch, noticing a lack of weight gain, or experiencing discomfort or pain while feeding, don’t hesitate to seek support from an IBCLC lactation consultant. An IBCLC can assess your baby’s feeding and provide bespoke advice to help you feel more confident on your breastfeeding journey.
As with many breastfeeding questions, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long each breastfeeding session should last. Every baby and every mother’s milk supply are different. Instead of focusing on the clock or putting your baby on a feeding schedule, it’s more important to pay attention to your baby’s feeding cues and how active their swallowing is. This will help you feel more confident and relaxed, knowing that your baby is getting what they need.
