Breastfeeding is one of the unforgettable moments. This activity is useful for improving the emotional relationship between mother and baby. However, not all mothers and babies can do this process directly, sometimes babies who are born prematurely need other ways in the process of consuming breast milk.
Generally, premature babies need care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) after the birth process to make their health condition more stable. When the condition improves, the mother can provide breast milk in the right way so that the baby’s needs can be met properly.
So, here are some tips that breastfeeding mothers can do when giving breast milk to premature babies.
Tips for Breastfeeding Premature Babies
Breastfeeding a premature baby is not easy. Usually, premature babies will experience fatigue faster than babies born at the appropriate gestational age.
In addition, when the baby still has a very low weight, of course, care in a special room is needed so that the baby’s health can improve. This makes it difficult for the baby to get breast milk directly.
However, don’t worry, mothers can still provide breast milk for babies regularly through other ways. Here are tips for providing breast milk to premature babies, such as:
1. Using a milk bottle
Babies who are still in the NICU room can get breast milk using a milk bottle. Unlike babies born at normal ages, premature babies will be more often sleepy while breastfeeding. This condition makes the baby less when breastfeeding.
To maintain the baby’s breast milk needs, mothers can breastfeed by sitting and holding the baby. This position is done to maintain the baby’s posture properly. That way, the baby will find it easier to suck breast milk from the bottle.
Also, pay attention to signs in the breastfeeding process. Premature babies are prone to coordination problems when sucking and breathing. Stop breastfeeding if the baby has difficulty breathing, is weak, or has a decreased heart rate.
2. Using a milk cup
Another way that can also be done is by using a milk cup. Giving breast milk using a cup does take longer with a smaller amount of breast milk. However, this method can help develop the neurological abilities of premature babies.
Premature babies who drink breast milk from a cup have lower heart rates and better oxygen saturation. In addition, using a cup is more natural than using a bottle.
3. Feeding tube
The use of a breast tube can also help the process of breastfeeding premature babies. Babies will learn to regulate sucking, swallowing, and breathing movements when the gestational age reaches 34-36 weeks.
If the baby is born before this gestational age, it is likely that the baby will have difficulty consuming breast milk directly or using a bottle. The baby will need to use a feeding tube up to the baby’s stomach to get breast milk through the nose or mouth.
4. Direct breastfeeding
If the premature baby is in good and stable condition, then the mother can give breast milk directly. Try to hold him and find a comfortable position during the breastfeeding process. Although it will seem difficult at first, but as they develop they will become stronger and can breastfeed well.
Usually, when starting direct breastfeeding, the medical team will ask the mother to express a little milk, so that the milk does not flow too fast from the breast. However, as the baby gets older and healthier, the baby will be able to breastfeed normally.
Benefits of Breast Milk for Premature Babies
Breastfeeding is very important to optimize the health of premature babies. Breast milk contains various nutrients for optimal development and growth.
There are various benefits of breast milk for babies born prematurely, such as:
- Improves the body’s immune system so that it is protected from various risks of infection. Especially in the digestive tract which is more susceptible to infection.
- Contains hormones, nutrients, and growth factors that help babies to develop and grow optimally.
- Easier for the body to digest than formula milk.
When your baby is allowed to leave the special room, make sure to have regular check-ups with a pediatrician.
