How many pounds should a premature infant take breast milk fortifier until?

Oct 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Xie Zixing

Introduction

Premature infants generally have relatively weak physical conditions, and the nutritional components in breast milk alone are usually insufficient to meet their needs. Therefore, human milk fortifier (HMF) should be added to fulfill the newborn's requirements. There is no specific weight criterion defined for when to stop using HMF. When the premature infant's growth and development indicators, as well as milk intake, become similar to those of full-term infants of the same sex, it may be appropriate to discontinue the use of human milk fortifier.

There is generally no specific weight requirement dictating when premature infants should stop taking human milk fortifier. When a preterm infant's growth and development indicators, as well as milk intake, reach levels comparable to those of full-term infants, consideration can be given to discontinuing the use of human milk fortifier.

Since premature infants are typically born with weak physical conditions, the nutritional components in breast milk alone are usually insufficient to meet their needs. Therefore, human milk fortifier is added to enrich breast milk with additional proteins, vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients to support the newborn's growth. When a premature infant’s growth parameters and milk consumption become similar to those of healthy, full-term infants of the same sex, it may be appropriate to discontinue the fortifier. This typically occurs between three to six months of age. For example, if a preterm infant weighed only 1.5 kg (about 3 pounds) at birth and, after using human milk fortifier for approximately two to three months, achieves weight gain on par with that of a normal full-term infant and consumes a similar volume of milk, discontinuation of the fortifier can be considered.

Due to their relatively weak immune and resistance systems, premature infants require careful and attentive care during feeding to prevent chilling and associated discomfort or illness.

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Aftereffects of a 7-month premature infant

Complications in infants born prematurely at seven months can affect the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems. Premature infants have underdeveloped lungs; the use of mechanical ventilation and oxygen therapy may lead to complications such as airway softening and poor development of laryngeal cartilage. Their immature intestinal development can impair nutrient absorption later on. Additionally, incomplete development of brain nerves and blood vessels in preterm infants may result in neurological complications such as hydrocephalus and cerebral softening.

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Formula for calculating milk volume in premature infants

The formula for calculating milk volume for premature infants generally refers to daily milk intake being equal to (days of life + 10) multiplied by body weight. For example, a premature infant who is 10 days old and weighed 4 jin (approximately 2 kg) at birth would have a daily milk volume of about 80 ml. However, due to differences in gestational age and physical condition at birth, the actual milk intake may vary among premature infants.

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What Should Be Done for Gastric Bleeding in Preterm Infants?

If this occurs, prompt evaluation and treatment by a pediatrician are essential. Depending on your specific condition, medications such as hemostatic agents, anti-inflammatory drugs, acid-suppressing agents, and other appropriate medications may be prescribed. It is recommended that you follow your physician’s specific treatment plan. Furthermore, the underlying cause of gastrointestinal bleeding must be clearly identified and treated accordingly. In preterm infants, organ development remains incomplete following separation from the mother’s body.

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What are the key points of care for premature infants?

Key points for caring for premature infants include maintaining warmth, feeding at regular intervals, and preventing infections. Premature babies have relatively low immunity and resistance, making them more susceptible to bacterial or viral attacks. When caring for a preterm baby, it is important to be patient and loving, ensure good indoor ventilation, and choose soft, breathable cotton clothing.