Becoming a parent for the first time is an exciting and overwhelming experience. Being responsible for the health and well-being of your newborn baby can be a daunting prospect, especially when it comes to questions like “How long should you let your newborn sleep without eating?”
It’s important to know that every baby is different and their needs will vary, but there are some general guidelines to help you decide when it’s time for your baby to eat.
Feeding on demand
The best way to ensure that your baby is getting enough food is to feed them on demand. This means that you should offer a feeding whenever your baby shows signs of hunger, such as licking their lips, smacking their lips, or putting their hands in their mouth.
This is the best option for newborn babies and allows you to respond to your baby’s cues quickly and accurately.
How long should you let your newborn sleep without eating?
Though it varies from baby to baby, newborns typically need to feed every two to three hours. This means that if your baby goes four hours without eating, you should wake them for a feeding.
However, if your baby is sleeping longer than five hours at night and seems content afterwards, then it’s probably okay to let them sleep through the night.
It’s important to note that babies should never be allowed to go more than four hours without eating.
When to see a doctor
It’s also important to recognize when your baby needs help from a doctor or lactation consultant. If your baby is not gaining enough weight, is spitting up frequently, or has other medical issues, it’s best to consult your doctor or a lactation consultant.
Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to deciding how long you should let your newborn sleep without eating. Every baby is unique and will have different needs, so it’s important to pay close attention to your baby’s cues and respond accordingly.
If you have any questions or concerns about feeding your newborn, be sure to talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant. With the right guidance, you can make sure that your baby is getting enough food and staying healthy.
