The duration of breastfeeding varies depending on the infant’s age. Newborns usually need about 10–40 minutes per feeding session, while older infants may need only 5–20 minutes.
You should not focus on the duration of breastfeeding alone, but rather observe signs of good latching and effective feeding, such as:
- Letting the baby feed until they release the breast on their own.
- Seeing and hearing swallowing.
- The baby appears calm and relaxed after feeding.
- Produces wet diapers and stools regularly.
Newborns usually feed every 2–3 hours (about 8–12 times in 24 hours), and every 1.5–3 hours during the first weeks. Breastfeeding should be on demand without restriction, at least 8 feeds per 24 hours, including at night.