Breastfeeding is less stressful and can be safely done earlier than
bottlefeeding even of breastmilk. Paula Meier's research shows this quite
clearly. Here are the citations:
Meier P, Anderson GC. Responses of small preterm infants to bottle- and
breastfeeding. MCN Vol 12, March/Apr 1987, 97-103.
Meier P. Bottle- and breastfeeding: effects on transcutaneous oxygen
pressure and temperature in preterm infants. Nurs Res 37(1) 1988, 36-41.
Linda J. Smith, BSE, FACCE, IBCLC
Bright Future Lactation Resource Centre
Dayton, OH USA
http://www.bflrc.com