Mothers usually need about 20 to 30 minutes every two to three hours, depending on the age of her child. The United States Surgeon General and other major health groups say all moms should breast feed their babies from birth to 6 months of age, without using infant formula, water, or other foods. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), along with the Surgeon General, says moms should breast feed for at least 12 months, if possible, while introducing other foods.