International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

What is the stomach capacity for a newborn per feed by day of life 5?

1. 45 ml

2. 57 ml

3. 70 ml

4. 80 ml

The correct answer is: 57 ml

For a newborn by day 5 of life, the average stomach capacity is roughly 57 ml per feed. At this point, the infant's digestive system is maturing, and the capacity expands as they adapt to feeding. This amount corresponds to the increased nutritional needs of a growing infant, who requires more milk to support their development. During the first few days after birth, the newborn's stomach size gradually increases. Initially, it can hold around 5-10 ml in the first day, and by the end of the first week, it can accommodate approximately 60-90 ml. The value of 57 ml aligns with typical physiological changes and reflects a developmental readiness to handle the feeding volumes necessary for growth. Understanding the progressive increase in stomach capacity helps in managing feeding schedules and ensuring the infant's nutritional requirements are met adequately. Correctly identifying this volume aids lactation consultants and caregivers in supporting breastfeeding and providing appropriate feeding guidance.