Feeding FAQ: 0-8 Weeks – Formula Feeding

I am not sure how to work out the amount of formula my 5 week baby needs at each feed

I am having problems working out how to split the amount of formula my 5 week son is due over his feeds during the day as his weight increases. Can you provide a table for weights 11lb and onwards like the one in your CLBB on page 63.

He weighs 11lbs at present.

He feeds at 7am 5ozs, 10.30am 5ozs, 2.30pm 4ozs, 5.00pm 3ozs, 6.15pm 3ozs, 10.30pm 5ozs, 2.30am 3ozs.

He naps at 8.15-10am, 11.30-2.15pm and 3.30-5pm.

The table shown on page 63 of The Contented Little Baby Book is given as an example of the feeding pattern you may expect from a small baby, but there is no specific table as each baby’s needs are different.

Using the guidelines of allowing 2.5ozs of milk per lb of body weight, you will be able to calculate about how much formula your son needs in a 24-hour period. This is then divided by the number of feeds your son is receiving in that time. This will give you a guide to work towards, allowing for your son’s own needs. Some babies may need an ounce more at some feeds but you can use the guidelines to work out how much he will probably take at each feed.

The feeds at 7.30am, 10.30am, 5pm/6.15pm and 10pm/11.15pm may be slightly larger than those at 2.30pm and his feed in the middle of the night. When your son goes through a growth spurt increase the feeds at 7am, 10.30am and 11pm first. This will mean making them 1oz more. He may not drink all the extra milk you have offered but you will have allowed him to take more should he want it.

It always seems better to have small amount of formula left in the bottom of the bottle once the feed has finished as you will then know your son has taken all he wants.

Your son will probably still need a feed in the night for another few weeks. Once he is sleeping through from after the middle of the night feed until 7am for at least a week you can begin to very gradually cut down the night feed. See page 149 of The Contented Baby Book. If you do cut back on his middle of the night feed too soon he may begin to wake earlier in the morning, which defeats what you are trying to achieve.

Your son’s weight gain should be about 6-8ozs each week. Providing he continues to gain weight at this steady rate you will know that he is receiving the right amount of milk for his needs.