Premature births pose a significant risk to the survival and growth of newborns. These babies are born before their organs are fully developed and require specialized care to survive.

Their primary needs include warmth, protection from infection, nutrition, and support for their developing organs.

Breast milk is one of the most valuable resources for premature babies, as it provides many of the essential nutrients and growth factors necessary for their survival.

Benefits of Breast Milk for Premature Babies

The benefits of breast milk for premature babies go beyond just nutrition. It contains several components that protect the newborns from infections and promote the growth and development of vital organs such as the brain and lungs.

Rich in nutrients and growth factors

Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for newborns, and this is no different for premature babies. It is rich in proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and other essential nutrients necessary for their survival and growth.

Moreover, it contains growth factors such as insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and epidermal growth factor (EGF), which help in the development of the lungs, intestines, and brain of premature infants.

Protection against infections

Immature immune systems of premature infants put them at high risk of infection, especially if they are exposed to outside environments through prolonged hospital stays.

Breast milk contains antibodies known as immunoglobulin A (IgA) that protect newborns from infections. It also contains cytokines that promote the development of immune cells to fight off infections.

Promotes brain development

Premature babies are at a higher risk of developing neurological problems such as cerebral palsy and learning disabilities.

Breast milk contains long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which play an essential role in the development of the brain and central nervous system. In addition, breast milk is rich in cholesterol, which is necessary for the formation of the neurons and the myelin sheath that surrounds them.

Improves gastrointestinal function

Premature babies have underdeveloped digestive systems that may lead to several gastrointestinal complications such as feeding intolerance, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), and inflammation of the gut.

Breast milk contains bioactive components such as oligosaccharides and probiotics that promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut, reduce the risk of NEC, and improve the digestive function of premature infants.

Reduces the risk of allergies and asthma

Breast milk contains antibodies and other immune components that help to protect premature babies against allergies and asthma.

Studies have shown that premature infants who exclusively receive breast milk have a lower risk of developing these conditions compared to those who receive formula or mixed feeding.

Increase in Long-term health outcomes

The benefits of breast milk for premature infants extend beyond the neonatal period.

Studies have shown that premature babies who receive breast milk have better long-term health outcomes, such as reduced risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity later in life.

Challenges of Breastfeeding a Premature Baby

While breast milk is necessary for the survival and growth of premature infants, breastfeeding can be challenging both for mothers and their babies.

Latching difficulties

Premature babies often have difficulty latching onto the breast due to their underdeveloped jaw muscles and oral reflexes. This may cause frustration for the mother and lead to a reduced milk supply.

Low milk supply

Premature babies require smaller but more frequent feedings. This puts a higher demand on the mother’s milk supply, which may not be fully developed in the early days of breastfeeding.

This can be especially challenging for mothers who have difficulty expressing milk.

Medical complications

Premature babies may have several medical complications that require specialized care, which may hinder breastfeeding. These may include respiratory distress syndrome, feeding intolerance, sepsis, and jaundice.

How to Promote Successful Breastfeeding for Premature Infants

Several measures can help promote successful breastfeeding for premature infants despite the challenges.

Early initiation of breastfeeding

Early initiation of breastfeeding promotes milk production and helps the baby’s digestive system adjust while reducing the risk of infection.

Mothers should be encouraged to initiate breastfeeding as soon as possible after delivery, even if the baby requires specialized care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Skin-to-skin contact

Also known as Kangaroo care, skin-to-skin contact helps to stabilize the baby’s breathing, heart rate, and temperature. This promotes bonding between mother and baby and promotes early initiation of breastfeeding.

Support for milk expression

Mother’s milk expression using a breast pump can support children who may be too weak or ill to breastfeed initially. A breast pump can help the mother to establish and maintain a milk supply, even when they are not with their baby.

Specialized support and counseling

The specialized support of trained lactation consultants, nursing staff, and other breastfeeding counseling services can help mothers overcome difficulties and challenges they may face during breastfeeding.

Conclusion

Breast milk is a vital resource for the survival and growth of premature infants. It provides essential nutrients and growth factors necessary for their development, promotes immunity, and fosters brain development.

Breastfeeding presents several challenges for both mother and the baby, but with the right support techniques, breastfeeding can be a successful and rewarding experience for both parties.