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Incidence and correlates of breast milk feeding in hospitalized preterm infants

Kimberly Andrews Espy1, Theresa E Senn

  • 1Department of Family and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901-6503, USA. kespy@siumed.edu

Social Science & Medicine (1982)
|August 21, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Breast milk feeding is common in preterm infants, with about half receiving it. Infant health and maternal factors influence feeding, suggesting targeted interventions can improve rates.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health Nutrition

Background:

  • Epidemiological studies on breastfeeding predominantly focus on healthy, full-term infants.
  • Limited data exists on breastfeeding incidence and predictors in preterm infants, especially those outside urban settings.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the incidence and correlates of breast milk feeding in preterm infants.
  • To identify factors influencing feeding practices in this vulnerable population.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of hospital medical charts for 151 preterm infants (gestational age ≤34 weeks) in the US.
  • Data collection included daily feeding records, maternal demographics, pregnancy details, and infant medical conditions.

Main Results:

  • Approximately 50% of preterm infants received breast milk.
  • 44% of the infants received at least one daily breast milk feeding throughout their hospitalization.
  • Maternal demographics were significant predictors, but the infant's perinatal medical condition uniquely influenced feeding practices.

Conclusions:

  • Breast milk feeding is feasible in preterm infants, though rates can be improved.
  • Targeted interventions focusing on maternal and infant factors can enhance breastfeeding rates in preterm populations.
  • Further research is needed to optimize feeding strategies for preterm infants and their families.

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