Define Feeding Options for Premature and LBW Babies?
Different workers have tried different method and since all methods are successful, it is dependent on the individual infant's needs and problems without imposing stress on the infant's metabolic and excretory system. Some studies have shown that tube feeding be done for infants born less than 34 weeks of gestation as these infants have sucking, fatigue and swallowing reflex problems. In another study, infants having very low birth weight (less than 1500 g) were initially fed by tube feeding (half strength formula) for 3-4 days until stable and then gradually increased the strength of the formula depending on the tolerance. In case of absence of complication like reflux, abdominal distension, diarrhoea etc, oral intake can be started.