New parents given advice over time it takes to feed babies 'overwhelming'

New parents completely underestimate the amount of time it takes to feed their , according to a study. They can dedicate up to six hours per day simply feeding a newborn and almost half (43 per cent) of new said they are spending more time on this vital activity than they ever imagined in a new nationwide survey, commissioned by breastfeeding experts Lansinoh.

The survey revealed:

• One in six parents spend five to six hours a day feeding their baby during the first month.

• 36 per cent of new parents admitted to feeling unprepared for just how much their baby would need them.

• 33 per cent said their entire day revolves around feeding their baby.

Clearly for new parents, managing time is more challenging than ever - whether it’s juggling work and family, or simply finding a moment for themselves. Even after the clocks changed this weekend and many welcomed an extra hour in bed, babies continued to wake up on the same schedule and feeding routines continued throughout the day (and night).

The survey highlighted that nearly three-quarters (74 per cent) of parents don’t enjoy the extra hour when the clocks go back and 57 per cent would choose to sleep if they had an extra hour to themselves.

Nearly half (48 per cent) said their children continue to wake up at the usual time, and 23 per cent report disruptions to sleep and feeding routines. This happens because newborns’ circadian rhythms aren’t fully developed. Unlike adults, whose internal clocks adjust to light and dark, babies have irregular sleep-wake patterns and need frequent feedings, making them largely unaffected by the time change.

No one warns new parents about the time feeding take

The survey also asked about the biggest surprises of parenthood, and it isn’t just the sleepless nights – it’s the sheer amount of time dedicated to feeding, nappy changing, burping, putting to sleep, and cluster feeding too. In the first month, a baby feeds between eight and 12 times per 24-hour period as their tummies are so small, and 15 per cent of UK parents are still spending five to six hours a day on their baby’s feeding routine after six months. However, for the majority of children, the amount of feeding time reduces once they start eating food to weaning.

It’s no wonder that 43 per cent of parents feel they’re spending more time looking after their baby than they ever imagined. For one third (33 per cent), their entire day revolves around their child’s feeding needs. While feeding can be a special bonding experience for new parents, it also comes as a surprise to many – with 36 per cent of new parents admitting they felt unprepared for just how much their baby would need them round the clock. Finding even a few minutes to themselves can feel impossible.

Sasha Singh, Healthcare Professional Lead for Lansinoh, said: “We know how overwhelming those early months can be for new parents, especially with the amount of time spent feeding. At Lansinoh, we want to give parents flexibility and freedom. Our new cordless, hands-free Wearable Breast Pump is designed to help mums make the most of their time. We’re here to support parents through those demanding first weeks and months so they can focus on what matters most to them and their baby.”