Feed your newborn only formula or breast milk unless otherwise instructed by your child’s doctor. Your baby will nurse about 8-12 times per day during the first weeks of life. During the newborn period, most breastfeeding sessions will take from 20-40 minutes. Newborn babies who are getting formula will need about 2-3 ounces every 2-4 hours. Newborn babies should not go more than about 4-5 hours without feeding.