In a message dated 11/01/2003 8:27:16 PM Pacific Standard Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

> Can I expect this baby as he gets stronger to become more effective at the
> breast?  Any words of wisdom to share with this mom to help her confidence?
>

Jennifer,
Yes, this baby will be able to breastfeed, but research demonstrates that mom
needs lots of follow-up support.  I'd recommend she rent a BabyWeigh Scale to
accurately measure this baby's volume of intake at the breast.  With proper
emotional support, which I believe you can provide for her, the use of the
scale can facilitate this mom/baby couplet to achieve exclusive breastfeeding.  I
have helped many preterm infants to reach this capacity.  And, I have felt
that reiterating the rationale why physiologically preterm infants cannot sustain
the latch without a shield (lack of brown fat, muscle tone) and educating
moms as to how and why preterm infants do mature and achieve the ability to
sustain a latch and thus transfer adequate volumes of intake at the breast leads
moms to being able to breastfeed.  Merely offering the breast and then
supplementing after each breastfeeding does not lead to exclusive breastfeeding as
effectively as providing ongoing support and the use of the scale for measurement.
 Depending on the mom, this means either renting the scale for daily use, or
it means periodic volume checks every 2-3 days to check progress.  This allows
moms to appropriately supplement preterm infants as necessary.
Carol Chamblin, RN, MS, IBCLC
Breast 'N Baby Lactation Services, Inc.
St. Charles, IL

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