Breastfeeding benefits for premature babies

Preemies have special feeding needs

Premature babies will follow special feeding protocols, since some of them may be too tiny to eat on their own. They do not have the coordination of breathing, sucking and swallowing necessary to feed. In these cases, and in order to conserve baby’s energy, they will be fed through a feeding tube that runs through either their nose or mouth and into their stomach.

These babies will often require additional nutrition (diets with increased calories, protein, calcium and other minerals) to help them grow. Learn about the different types of feeding methods found in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) from a Neonatal Nurse Practioner, Terry Johnson.

Breastmilk has enormous health benefits

Did you know that breastmilk has nutrients and antibodies that can make all the difference to babies born prematurely?

Breastmilk has been shown to be the best nutrition for the special needs of fragile preemies… The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has re-affirmed the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months for all babies. The AAP also recommends the use of breastmilk for all preterm infants, preferably mother’s own milk or pasteurized donor breastmilk if mom’s milk is unavailable.

• Reduced infection and inflammatory disease
• Enhanced neurodevelopmental outcomes
• Healthy early postnatal growth patterns

Breastfeeding reduces stress

In addition to reducing health risks now and in the future, breastfeeding helps preemies feel calm and loved during those tough early weeks. While breastfeeding, babies usually experience… All of these breastfeeding benefits can ultimately help preemies get healthy, out of the hospital and home sooner!

• A feeling of warmth
• Stable oxygen levels
• Regular heart rate

REFERENCES: American Academy of Pediatrics. Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk. Section on Breastfeeding. [Originally published online February, 27, 2012]. Pediatrics. DOI: 10.1542/peds.2011-3552 Cindy C. Martin, RN and Jeanette Zaichkin, RN. “The Benefits of Breastfeeding Milk for Your Preterm Baby (Preemie)” Accessed online July 17, 2015 at http://www.prematurity.org/baby/breastfeeding-preemie-benefits.htm La Leche League International. “Is Breastfeeding Important for My Premature Baby?” Accessed online July 17, 2015 at http://www.llli.org/faq/premimportant.html Texas Department of State Health Services. “Good for Preemies” Accessed online July 17, 2015 at http://www.breastmilkcounts.com/good-for-preemies.php