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Expressed Milk & Formula

FEEDING GUIDELINES

Scientific guidance on preparation, calculation, and feeding volumes for infants using expressed breast milk or formula.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To safely express and feed breast milk or prepare formula, the following equipment is recommended:

  • Manual or electric breast pump
  • Feeding bottles with teats (nipples)
  • Bottle warmer (avoid microwaving to prevent hot spots)
  • Sterilizer for sterilizing feeding bottles and nipples

FEEDING CHART: FIRST 7 DAYS OF LIFE

Feeding chart for a full-term baby, weighing 3 kg or more at birth, calculated based on the birth weight of the baby.

Day of Life Approximate mL / kg Body Weight / Day
Day 160
Day 270
Day 380
Day 490 - 100
Day 5110 - 120
Day 6120 - 140
Day 7140 - 150
How to Calculate (Example):

If baby’s birth weight is 3.4 kg:
Day 1 Requirement: 3.4 x 60 = 204 ml/day.
If divided into 8 feeds: approx 25 ml per feed.
If divided into 12 feeds: approx 17 ml per feed.
Plan to feed 17-25 ml per feed, depending on how frequently the baby feeds.

FEEDING FROM 8TH DAY TO 6 MONTHS

Age in Months mL / kg Body Weight / Day
1 - 3 Months 150
3 - 6 Months 120
General Rules of Thumb
  • Weight Based Volume: Whatever is the baby’s weight in kg (rounded off) is roughly the number of ounces of milk per feed.
    Example: A 5 kg baby will be able to consume 5 ounces (approx. 150 ml) per milk feed.
  • Maximum Volume: The maximum volume of feed an infant can take at one go is about 240 ml / feed when the baby reaches around 8-9 kg body weight.
  • Daily Total: Generally, the infant will be able to consume approximately 1000-1200 mL milk per 24 hours between 3-6 months of age.

STORAGE GUIDELINES

Proper storage is vital to maintain the nutrients and safety of expressed breast milk.

Room Temp

Up to 4 Hours
(Optimal)

Refrigerator

Up to 4 Days
(Back of fridge)

Freezer

Up to 6 Months
(Separate door)

Need Help with Feeding Calculations?

If you are unsure about your baby's weight gain or feeding requirements, please consult Dr. Tanmay for a personalized growth assessment.

Book a Consultation