Babies should be breastfed exclusively (only breast milk, no other foods or liquids) for about the first 6 months of life. After 6 months, solid foods can be introduced while continuing breastfeeding. Experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization, recommend continuing breastfeeding for 2 years or longer, as long as it works for both mother and baby

How long to breastfeed during each feeding

• Newborns may nurse for up to 20 minutes or longer on one or both breasts. As babies get older and more skilled, they often nurse for about 5–10 minutes per breast

• Some studies show breastfeeding sessions can range from about 12 to 67 minutes, with an average around 20-45 minutes in the newborn period

• Babies may cluster feed, meaning several feedings close together followed by longer breaks

How often to breastfeed

• Newborns typically breastfeed 8–12 times per day, roughly every 1.5 to 3 hours, including overnight

• By 1 to 2 months, feedings usually decrease to 7–9 times per day

• Between 1 and 6 months, babies tend to feed every 2 to 4 hours, but some may feed more frequently at times

Summary

• Exclusively breastfeed for about 6 months.
• Continue breastfeeding alongside solid foods for 1-2 years or more.
• Feed newborns 8-12 times daily, nursing sessions lasting 15-45 minutes.
• Feeding frequency and duration decrease as baby grows, but breastfeeding remains beneficial for years.

Any breastfeeding duration is beneficial, and the exact timing depends on the needs and preferences of mother and baby