JOGNN 1999 May-June; 28(3):264-73

Transitioning preterm infants with nasogastric tube supplementation: increased likelihood of breastfeeding.

Kliethermes PA; Cross ML; et al

This study compared nasogastric tube and bottle supplementation as means of transitioning preterm infants to breastfeeding within an established breastfeeding support system. The study group consisted of 84 breastfed infants, with birth weights between 1,000 and 2,500 g. The results showed that compared with infants receiving bottle supplements, infants receiving nasogastric tube supplements were 4.5 times more likely to be breastfeeding at discharge, and at 3 days, 3 months, and 6 months after discharge. 

Other studies have shown that premies better co-ordinate sucking and swallowing at the breast than they do with a bottle, and can safely be put to the breast when ready to start self feeding. This study suggests that bottle supplementation interferes with the establishment of successful lactation. As with full term infants, avoidance of bottle supplementation may be prudent in most cases, allowing the infant’s sucking to be at the breast, with necessary supplementation by NG tube. Nasogastic tube supplementation requires no energy expenditure on the infant’s part, and also does not interfere with the infant’s learning to breastfeed.

Debbie Owens

LLLL   Ft. Knox, KY

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