Has anyone got any ideas on tempting a premmie to take the breast??
Saw a lady yesterday, 36 week emergency caeser for eclampsia, baby
only 4 pounds born, ventilated for 3 days in NICU then had bottles
for 3 days once OK.  Now 3 weeks old.  Mum trying every feed at
breast, never successful, bottle feeds EBM.  Baby has a great suck,
still very interested in the breast, even when Mum is fully clothed,
but unable to latch at all.  Mums nipples aren't great, but not flat
or inverted.  Suggested Kangaroo care, baths together, sleeping
together, bottle feeding at the breast, nipple puller/ice to nipple,
Tried a shield, very minimal success, suggested that she may want to
give that a try every now and again.  She seems very keen and open to
lots of suggestions.  I did also explain that even in 1 week when he
is 40 weeks, that may make all the difference.  Anything else I need
to add.
Val in Busselton, Western Australia
RN RM IBCLC