How Long Should Each Breastfeeding Session Last? A Guide for New Moms

Breastfeeding is one of the most natural and beautiful parts of motherhood—but it also comes with many questions, especially if you're a new mom. One of the most common questions I had initially was: “How long should each breastfeeding session last?”

First up: There is no one-size-fits-all answer. But understanding what’s normal and what factors affect feeding time can help you feel more confident—and less stressed—about your breastfeeding journey.

This mom is holding her newborn and wearing a breastfeeding shirt with hidden zipper access. 

How Long Should a Breastfeeding Session Last?

On average, a breastfeeding session lasts between 10 to 45 minutes. I know that’s a wide range and this varies based on your baby’s age, feeding style, and even the time of day. Keep in mind that newborns typically take longer when nursing.

Here’s a general breakdown by age:

Important: These are averages. Some babies may feed for shorter or longer durations—and that’s okay!

What Affects Breastfeeding Duration?

Several factors can impact how long your baby nurses:

1. Your Baby’s Age

Newborns are still learning how to latch and suck effectively. As they grow, they become more efficient feeders, so sessions often get shorter. 

2. Your Milk Flow

If you have a fast let-down or strong milk supply, your baby may get full quickly. On the flip side, slower flow may mean longer nursing sessions. This also changes over time. According to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, "in the beginning of the feeding, the milk is more watery. This satisfies the baby’s thirst. As nursing continues, the amount of fat increases. The high fat milk at the end of the feeding is called hind milk. Allow your baby to nurse for as long as he wants (at least 15 minutes) on the first breast so the baby empties the breast and receives the hind milk".

3. Your Baby’s Appetite

Just like adults, babies have different hunger levels. Some feed quickly and deeply; others prefer to snack and nurse more frequently. It really depends on your child. 

4. Comfort Nursing

Babies often nurse not just for food, but also for comfort. These sessions may last longer but are important for bonding and emotional security. Some may find comfort in nursing to sleep at night or before nap time. 

Pro Tips for Efficient and Comfortable Nursing

1. Watch your baby, not the clock. Let your baby feed until they unlatch on their own. Look for their cues that they are full. 
2. Offer both breasts. Start with one side, then offer the other. Some babies may only need one.
3. Use a comfortable nursing position. Support your arms and back—comfort makes sessions easier. There are several nursing positions that are most common (and it can really be a personal preference). 
4. Stay hydrated and nourished. Your body needs extra calories and water to produce milk. According to The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, breastfeeding moms need about 16 cups (128 fl oz) of water per day. 
5. Track patterns, not exact times. Apps and journals can help you notice trends without stressing about each session. I first used the note pad section in my iPhone to keep track of feed times and durations, and then used an app (which made it way easier)!

Final Thoughts

So, how long should each breastfeeding session last? The best answer is: As long as your baby needs. That could be 10 minutes, or it could be 45. Follow their cues, monitor their growth, and give yourself grace through the process. Some moms like to do what's called a weighted feed (where they weigh their baby before and after a feed to make sure they're getting enough milk). I did this with a simple scale I bought on Amazon.