How to Breastfeed a Premature Baby

Article describes how to breastfeed a premature baby in the beginning by pumping, then transitioning to latching on and finally to be successful when baby leaves the hospital without the bottle.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Breastfeeding pump
• Milk storage containers
• Sharpie marker

1. 
   Breastfeeding Pump Supplies

   Pump as often as you can for 20-30 minutes on each side in the beginning to stimulate milk production. In the beginning you will have small amounts of colostrum that is rich in proteins to protect your premature baby. When your milk comes in, you will be storing more milk than your baby takes in, but keep pumping. Pump every three hours or when your breasts feel engorged, even during the night time, when your baby would be waking even though they are not by you.

2. Participate in kangaroo care as often as possible. When baby starts acting hungry, let baby sit in breastfeeding positions with his/her mouth on your nipple. The baby may start to suckle, but get tired quicker due to size. Continue with this process as often throughout the day as possible. Soon the baby will be stronger and start to latch on and get milk.

3. Continue tube feedings and breastfeeding until baby reaches a point when they are strong enough to nurse for at least 15-20 minutes. Then with the discretion of your babies doctor, you can start eliminating tube feedings. Start with decreasing when the baby has successfully emptied your breasts, monitor your baby for signs of hunger afterwards.

4. Continue decreasing tube feedings and strictly nurse throughout the day and night. You will need to stay by your baby during the night time to get up and nurse them just as you would at home. Continue monitoring the babies weight, wet and dirty diapers which ensure you and your doctor that the baby is getting enough to eat.

5. Continue nursing when you are able to bring baby home with you. Congratulations on your accomplishment. Nursing a premature baby is a lot harder than nursing a full term baby, but the efforts are well worth it in the end. Your baby will thank you.

Tips & Warnings

• It is very important not to allow baby to use artificial plastic nipples from a pacifier and bottle as they may not latch on later.
• Follow your instincts and be your babies greatest advocate. You know what is important for your baby.
• Make sure you are monitoring the number of wet diapers and dirty diapers to ensure the baby is getting enough milk and calories as you transition from tube feedings to nursing.