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Breastfeeding premature and sick babies

Breastfeeding is the best thing for a sick or premature baby. Not only will it give them the nutrition they need to get stronger, it will also protect them from infection. Find out more about why it's so important in the video below.

Expressing your breastmilk for a premature or ill baby

If your baby is sick or premature they probably won't be able to feed from the breast at first. Instead you'll be encouraged to express your breast milk so your baby can be fed through a tube or syringe. The earlier and the more you express, the more milk you will produce when your baby is stronger and ready to start feeding from the breast.

If this is your first time breastfeeding, it might take some time to get used to expressing. Try not to worry if it’s taking longer than you thought or hurts a little – it will get much easier as the days and weeks go by. And once your milk supply has been established, feeding forms a special bond between you and your baby.

Remember, your baby may only need small amounts of milk to begin with, but it's really important to be prepared for when your baby is bigger and needs more milk. Watch this video for guidance on how to use an electric pump.

You can sometimes rent or loan an electric pump from the hospital. Sometimes you might have to hire or buy one. Your midwife or neonatal nurse will be on hand to help you get started. Have a look at the guides to expressing and bottle feeding for more information.

Top tips for expressing and feeding a premature baby

Preparing for the first breastfeed

Babies can practise breastfeeding during skin-to-skin contact by licking or even taking the nipple in their mouth. From around 32–34 weeks your baby will begin to manage sucking, swallowing and breathing at the same time and, if well, may be ready to feed from your breast. Babies all progress at different rates and it's important to take one day at a time. Small premature babies tire easily and may take some time to fully establish breastfeeding. Our section on getting started will help you get ready.

UNICEF Baby Friendly initiative have produced a booklet Supporting love and nurture on the neonatal unit which provides more information about breastfeeding and caring for a premature baby.

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Last updated: 12 Feb, 2022