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Factors influencing independent oral feeding in preterm infants

S M Van Nostrand1, L N Bennett1, V J Coraglio1

  • 1Division of Neonatology, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, USA.

Journal of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine
|March 14, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Preterm infants achieve independent oral feeding around 36 weeks post-menstrual age. Factors like very early gestational age and neonatal morbidities can delay this milestone, while advances in care may accelerate it.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatalogy
  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Developmental Pediatrics

Background:

  • Independent oral feeding is a critical milestone for preterm infants.
  • Understanding factors influencing the timing of this skill is crucial for optimizing care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the mean post-menstrual age (PMA) for achieving independent oral feeding in preterm infants.
  • To investigate the impact of gestational age (GA), neonatal morbidities, gender, race, delivery route, and birth year on oral feeding attainment.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective chart review of 2700 preterm infants (born < 37 weeks GA).
  • Data collected on PMA at independent oral feeding and associated clinical factors.
  • Statistical analysis to identify significant predictors of feeding attainment.

Main Results:

  • Mean PMA for independent oral feeding was 36 4/7 weeks.
  • Infants with GA < 29 weeks had delayed feeding attainment (37 3/7 weeks).
  • Necrotizing enterocolitis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and severe intraventricular hemorrhage significantly delayed oral feeding.
  • Infants born since 2000, via vaginal delivery, and female infants achieved feeding earlier.
  • Vaginal delivery and advances in neonatal care were associated with accelerated feeding.

Conclusions:

  • Preterm infants typically achieve independent oral feeding by 36 4/7 weeks PMA.
  • Very low GA (< 29 weeks) and major neonatal morbidities are associated with delayed feeding.
  • Vaginal delivery and advancements in neonatal care may promote earlier feeding attainment.
Abstract

Keywords:
Oralfeedingpreterm infant

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