Whatever you call them I do believe they happen.  I'm not sure you could
compare it to adults who have their full growth.  I have observed in my
children that the increased need to feed comes with growth in length.
This continues through adulthood.  I always knew that when the food
seemed to disappear in mass quantities it was time to line them up to the
doorjamb and make a new height mark.  Never failed to be true.  I don't
see why preemies would be any different.  Also, I never had a mother fail
to understand and accept this concept as valid.  It actually seemed to
help them relax about periodic, intense feeding patterns.

Regarding the family bed comment at the shower....If she feels she would
be too aware to sleep with a child in her bed, she probably would be, but
only because she is convinced it would be so.  There is cultural
conditioning to be overcome, but as many families who share sleep can
attest, it's a wonderful way to actually get more restful sleep, not to
mention those sweet smiles in the morning.  My only regret with the
family bed is that I didn't do it with my  first child!
IMHO

Adele Delgado, LLLL
Santa Ysabel, Ca.

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