Breastfeeding Calculator

Newborns (0-2 months): 8-12 times per day, every 1.5-3 hours, including night feedings. Cluster feeding (frequent feedings close together) normal in evenings. 2-6 months: 7-9 times per day, every 2-4 hours as baby becomes more efficient. 6-12 months: 4-6 times per day with solid foods introduced. Feed on-demand (responsive feeding) - watch for hunger cues (rooting, lip smacking, hand to mouth) rather than clock. Never go >4 hours during day in first month. Growth spurts = temporarily increased frequency.

Typical session: 10-45 minutes total, varying by baby age and efficiency. Newborns: 20-45 min per session (still learning, less efficient). 3-6 months: 15-20 min (more efficient). 6+ months: 10-15 min. Offer both breasts each session - baby may take one or both. Look for signs of satisfaction: Relaxed hands, falls asleep, self-detaches, seems content. Don't limit time arbitrarily - let baby finish first breast (gets fatty hindmilk) before switching. Short frequent feeds or very long feeds may indicate latch issues.

Adequate intake signs: 6-8 wet diapers/day (after day 5), 3-4+ poopy diapers/day in first month (breastfed babies), good weight gain (4-7 oz/week 0-4 months), baby satisfied after feeds, audible swallowing during feeding, meets developmental milestones. Output = input! Red flags: Fewer than 6 wet diapers, dark urine, no weight gain or weight loss after day 5, constantly fussy, lethargic, fewer than 8 feeds/day in first month. If concerned, see lactation consultant and pediatrician. Weighted feeds can measure exact intake.

Extra calories needed: 450-500 additional calories/day while breastfeeding. Focus on: Protein (lean meats, eggs, beans, nuts), calcium (dairy, leafy greens - 1,000mg/day), iron (red meat, spinach, fortified cereals), omega-3s (salmon, walnuts, flax), whole grains, fruits/vegetables, healthy fats. Hydration critical: 13 cups water/day - drink water at each feeding. Limit: Caffeine (300mg/day = 2-3 cups coffee), alcohol (wait 2-3 hours after one drink), high-mercury fish. Avoid: Restrictive diets without medical supervision. Take prenatal vitamin. Most foods safe - true allergies rare (watch for baby reactions).