HOW LONG TO BREASTFEED AT ONE GIVEN TIME This is the the most common question asked by the mother's. Sessions typically last 20 to 30 minutes. But keep in mind, that’s on average. Your baby could take more or less time and need to feed for longer in the beginning and during growth spurts. Drain one breast fully. Ideally, at least one breast should be well-drained at each feeding. This is more important than being sure baby feeds from both breasts, since hind milk — the last of the mature milk that baby feeds on — is richer in fats and calories. So, wait until your baby seems ready to quit on breast one, then offer, but don’t force, breast two. If baby drains one breast and doesn’t want any more, start with the other breast at the next feeding. Wait for baby to signal she’s done. End the feeding by waiting for baby to let go of the nipple. If your baby doesn’t, you’ll know to end the feeding when the suck-swallow pattern slows down to around four sucks per one swallow. Often, your baby will fall asleep at the end of the first breast and either awaken to nurse from the second or sleep through until the next feeding. Again, unlatch by pressing on your breast near baby’s mouth or carefully inserting a clean finger into the corner of your infant's mouth. HOW OFTEN TO BREASTFEED Feeding babies when they’re hungry (on demand) rather than on a schedule is ultimately best for breastfeeding success. But since babies usually aren’t born hungry — their appetite generally picks up around the third day — chances are there won’t be much demand at first. Which means you may have to initiate — even push — at first. A newborn should have at least eight to 12 feedings each 24 hours, even if demand isn’t up to that level yet, for the first few weeks. Break that down and you’ll probably be nursing every two to three hours, day and night, counting from the beginning of each nursing session. Feeding patterns vary widely from baby to baby, however, so you might need to nurse a little more or less frequently. If you have a hungrier or more impatient infant on your hands, you may go little more than an hour between feedings; a more easily satisfied baby might be able to go for three-and-a-half to four hours. If you feel like you're nursing constantly, don't worry; it's temporary. As your milk supply increases and your baby gets bigger, the breaks between feedings will get longer. Don't be concerned or surprised if your formula-feeding or supplementing friends say their newborns eat far less often. Breast milk is more easily digested than infant formula, allowing the tummies of nursing babies to empty faster — and thirst for more sooner. IS YOUR BABY GETTING ENOUGH MILK Many new nursing mothers worry at some point that baby isn't eating enough. You don’t know how much milk you’re producing and baby is consuming. If you’re concerned, a few indicators can help you check that your baby is getting her fill: Disposition. If your little one seems happy and content after most feedings, then chances are she's a satisfied customer and is getting enough milk. If she's crying and fussing or sucking on her fingers frantically after a full feeding, she might still be hungry (though these can also be signs of gas or infant colic). Dirty diapers. Keep a careful count: After three or four days, your newborn should be pumping out at least six and up to 12 with clear to very pale yellow urine and at least three or four soft, yellow bowel movements over a 24-hour period in the beginning. For the first several weeks, it's a good idea to keep a written record of breastfeeding frequency and diaper output, which you can bring along to the pediatrician's office at each visit. Weight. Infants should gain weight steadily every week from the second week on; 4 to 7 ounces per week is typical for newborns, although weight gain varies depending on age and other factors. Your pediatrician will let you know if your baby's growth is on track. IS YOUR BABY GETTING ENOUGH BREAST MILK There are many signs you can watch for to see if your baby is getting enough milk: Your baby passes enough clear or pale yellow urine.The urine is not deep yellow or orange. Your baby has enough bowel movements . Your baby switches between short sleeping periods and wakeful, alert periods. Your baby is satisfied and content after feedings. Your breasts may feel softer after feeding. From birth to 3 months old, a baby usually will gain up to 1 ounce of weight each day. Keep in mind that many babies lose a small amount of weight in the first days after birth. Your baby's doctor will check your baby's weight at your first doctor visit after you leave the hospital. Make sure to visit your baby's doctor for a checkup within three to five days after birth and then again when the baby is 2 to 3 weeks old. To continue......