Mothers, These Are Tips For Breastfeeding For Premature Babies

Illustration (Jonathan Borba/Pexels)

JAKARTA - Normally, babies will be born at 40 weeks of gestation. Birth below 37 weeks causes premature babies with immature organ conditions. One of the effects is that the baby has difficulty swallowing breast milk.

Why can babies be born prematurely? Actually, many factors can be the cause, including preeclampsia, uterine deformity, premature rupture of membranes, abnormal position of the placenta, or the presence of blood disorders in the fetus.

If the baby is born prematurely, it will be difficult to give breast milk. In fact, of course, breast milk is very important for growth and development.

However, that doesn't mean the baby can't get milk at all. It's just that the method is slightly different and requires more effort for the mother. For breastfeeding premature babies, you can pump milk every 2-3 hours during the day and 3-4 times at night.

The process of breastfeeding can also use assistive devices, such as a tube that is placed in the mouth and will flow into the stomach. Breast milk can also be given directly through a lactation tube without having to pump first.

Another option is to use a lactation aid bottle or use a pipette. If the milk production is low, your doctor may suggest giving additional formula milk. However, this depends on the mother's decision and the doctor's recommendation.

It should also be noted that the production of breast milk in mothers who give birth to premature babies is different from normal births. Milk has a higher nutritional content. So, by giving exclusive breastfeeding, the baby's condition can be better.

You can also try the kangaroo method for premature babies born with low birth weight. This method is considered to be able to increase the life expectancy of premature babies and babies who weigh less than 2kg.

How to breastfeed with this method is to put the baby without clothes into the mother's clothes, place it on the chest until the skin touches. Then, the baby's position is held with a long cloth so that it is safe even if the mother moves. This method can be done gradually and regularly to help her breastfeed directly.

Mothers can also try the position of placing the baby in the lap, not being carried. This position makes it easier for the baby to reach the breast. Mother is enough to support the head and shoulders to stay safe.

This position also makes the baby more comfortable. Because premature babies are more easily sleepy while breastfeeding and their sucking reflex is not too good.