At 7 weeks, your baby is becoming more alert. They’ve just passed the 6-weeks growth spurt, so hopefully their feeding has become more regular. But there’s still a lot of growing to do.
Our 7-weeks-old baby feeding guide is designed to help you negotiate this exciting phase. You’ll find schedules, tips and common concerns to help you manage a routine with your baby.
Understanding 7-Weeks-Old Baby Feeding
Find out why nutrition is so important for your 7-weeks-old baby and understand how to deal with some common feeding issues.
The Importance of 7-Weeks-Old Baby Feeding
Now that your baby is 7 weeks old, they are more active during the day. They’re learning new skills like holding their head up for short periods or perhaps beginning to grab objects. This means that they need a regular feeding schedule with either breast milk or formula to help them develop.
Breastfeeding and bottle-feeding have their own benefits. While breastfeeding means you have food for your baby on tap, bottle-feeding allows you to share the experience with your partner. Both are valid sources of nourishment for your baby.
Common Feeding Challenges for a 7-Weeks-Old Baby
You may encounter some challenges when feeding your 7-weeks-old baby. These may include:
- Refusing to feed: Your 7-weeks-old baby may appear uninterested in their feed or turn away from the breast or bottle. This could be because they are tired or over-stimulated. If they are tired, let them rest before trying again. If they are over-stimulated, take them somewhere quiet to feed.
- Constant feeding: Your baby may be having a growth spurt at 7 weeks if they seem to be constantly on the breast or bottle. It’s tiring feeding a baby on demand, so make sure you take a rest when you can.
- Sleepiness at feeding time: It’s important for your baby to keep feeding regularly at this age. Try to wake them up by changing their diaper or playing with them until they are ready to feed.
7-Week-Old Baby Feeding Schedule
Find out how much to feed a 7-week-old baby and how often, as well as how to adapt their feeding routine.
Typical Feeding Schedule for a 7-Weeks-Old Baby
At 7 weeks, babies need 4 to 5 ounces (around 115 to 140 ml) of milk at every feed. They will need to be fed every 3 to 4 hours, but this can vary. Formula-fed babies may go for longer between feeds, as their milk is more slowly digested.
By now, you will probably know the signs that your baby is hungry. These may include:
- Turning their head to look for the breast or bottle;
- Sticking out their tongue;
- Sucking their hands;
- Crying or fussing.
Adapting Your 7-Week-Old Baby Feeding Schedule
Babies grow and change quickly, so you may need to adapt their feeding schedule.
If your baby is constantly feeding, it’s OK to go with the flow. They may be going through a growth spurt and need the extra nutrients.
If they are not feeding at all, they may be feeling tired. Try offering them a feed soon after they wake from their nap rather than at the end of their “wake window.”
And don’t worry, it’s normal to still be feeding your 7-week-old baby through the night. Make sure you have a dedicated feeding area that’s quiet and comfy. Grab rest when you can.
Tips for Breastfeeding and Bottle-Feeding
Read our tips to make breastfeeding or bottle-feeding smoother.
Breastfeeding Tips for 7-Weeks-Old Babies
- Use a C-shaped pillow to support you while you feed.
- Place your baby in an upright or semi-upright position.
- Make sure their head, neck and back are supported.
- Position their head towards your breast.
- Move them close to your nipple as they open their mouth. You’ll know they have latched on properly if their mouth is open wide around the nipple and areola (the area around the nipple).
Help your baby get enough milk by:
- Checking they have latched on properly.
- Feeding them on demand if they show signs of hunger.
- Offering them both breasts at each feed.
Our Bottle-Feeding Tips for 7-Week-Old Babies
- Choose a formula aimed at 7-week-old babies.
- If your baby seems gassy, choose a hydrolyzed formula, which is digested more easily.
- You can also use an anti-colic bottle.
- Try a nipple with a faster flow rate as your baby grows.
- Sit comfortably with your back supported when bottle-feeding.
- Hold your baby in an upright or semi-upright position to help prevent reflux.
- Hold the bottle horizontally while you feed your baby.
Tracking Your 7-Weeks-Old Baby Feeding
Track your 7-weeks-old baby feeding routine to gain a greater understanding of their needs.
Keeping a Feeding Log
You can keep a feeding log by recording the dates, times and amounts your baby feeds. If you’re breastfeeding, make a note of time spent feeding.
Either use a notebook or a parenting app on your phone.
Tools to Help You with Feeding
Make feeding easy with these tools:
- Self-sterilizing anti-colic bottles for safe and fuss-free feeding;
- A selection of silicone nipples with different flow rates;
- Formula for 7-week-old babies;
- 2-in-1 bottle and nipple brush;
- Breast pump and accessories;
- C-shaped pillow.
Making Feeding Time Satisfying
Knowing how much and how often to feed your 7-week-old baby is essential for their continued growth.
Follow the tips outlined in this article to help make feeding time a smooth and satisfying experience for you and baby.
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FAQs
How much breast milk does a 7-weeks-old baby need?
Your 7-weeks-old baby needs around 4 to 5 ounces (around 115 to 140 ml) of breast milk at every feed.
Why does my 7-weeks-old baby vomit after feeding?
Babies can vomit after feeding if they are overfed. Stop feeding them when they show signs that they have had enough — for example turning away from the breast or bottle.
What should I do if my 7-weeks-old baby cries after feeding?
Your baby may need burping if they cry after feeding. Take time to burp them before laying them down to play or nap.
