"I don't think my baby is getting enough to eat."
Many new parents worry about this, especially when their infants spit up their food or seem as if they don't have much of an appetite. Breastfed babies generally nurse every two to three hours and should have six to eight wet diapers a day. Bottlefed newborns need about two to three ounces of formula every three to four hours. At 1 month, they should take in at least four ounces every four hours or so, and by 6 months, six to eight ounces, four or five times a day. "A baby's appetite will probably slow down a little by the time she reaches her first birthday," says Dr. Schiff.
WHAT YOU CAN DO:
If she doesn't express interest in eating, but otherwise appears healthy, she may be tired or not really hungry. It might help to brush her cheek or mouth with the nipple of your breast or the bottle to stimulate her interest in feeding. Don't push her if she turns away; she knows how much her stomach can handle.
WHEN TO CALL THE DOCTOR:
If your infant is spitting up after each feeding and not gaining weight according to schedule. You should also call if an older child is losing or failing to gain weight normally.
