Hi Pat,
I have recently worked with a mother with 35.5 week prem twins. Her nipples
measured 2.5 cm in diameter and length. They were born around 5lbs each and
were unable to successfully latch and milk the breast until 6-7 weeks of
age. In the interim the mother put them to the breast at least 3/day for
10-15 mins each feed and comped/fed ebm with finger/tube feeding. She did
not want the babies to become used to bottles. Initially she had to use
breast compression - they would only swallow when the breast was
compressed. As their mouths grew they were eventually able to milk the
breast effectively, this took another couple of weeks. Now aged 4 months
they are happily breastfeeding. This is a very condensed version - if you
would like more information please free to contact me.
Regards, Roslyn Draper RN RM IBCLC Melbourne, Australia. [log in to unmask]