How to feed a premature baby with weak sucking ability

Mar 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng

Introduction

In general, feeding methods for premature infants with weak sucking ability may include breastfeeding, bottle feeding, tube feeding, intravenous nutritional support, and gastrostomy. For premature infants with weak sucking ability, an appropriate feeding method should be selected based on the individual condition of the infant and the physician's recommendations. At the same time, the infant's response and tolerance should be closely monitored during the feeding process.

Generally, feeding methods for preterm infants with weak sucking ability can include breastfeeding, bottle feeding, tube feeding, intravenous nutritional support, and gastrostomy. The specific options are analyzed as follows:

1. Breastfeeding

It is suitable for preterm infants with a birth weight ≥1500g and relatively good sucking ability. Lactation should begin 0.5 to 2 hours after delivery. Care should be taken not to feed too much at each feeding to prevent vomiting or choking. Breast milk contains abundant nutrients and immune factors that help the growth, development, and immune enhancement of preterm infants.

2. Bottle Feeding

This method is suitable for preterm infants whose mothers have no breast milk or insufficient breast milk, and whose sucking ability has somewhat recovered. Use a soft nipple for bottle feeding, and control the milk flow speed to avoid it being too fast or too slow. The selection of the nipple should match the sucking ability of the preterm infant to avoid feeding difficulties caused by a nipple that is too large or too small.

3. Tube Feeding

This method is suitable for preterm infants whose swallowing and sucking abilities have not fully developed and who require hospitalization. With the assistance of a nurse, milk is delivered directly into the stomach via a gastric tube. Tube feeding must strictly follow aseptic procedures to prevent infection. The volume and speed of milk administration must be controlled to avoid discomfort in the preterm infant due to rapid feeding.

4. Intravenous Nutritional Support

This method is suitable for preterm infants with very weak sucking ability who cannot obtain sufficient nutrition orally. Nutritional support is provided intravenously. Intravenous nutritional support must be performed by professional medical staff within a hospital setting. Close monitoring of the nutritional status and vital signs of the preterm infant is required.

5. Gastrostomy

This is usually considered only when other feeding methods are unsuitable or unable to meet the nutritional needs of the preterm infant. A surgical opening is made in the infant's stomach, and a feeding tube is inserted directly into the stomach for feeding. Gastrostomy is an invasive procedure associated with certain risks and complications. It must be performed under the guidance of a professional medical team.

For preterm infants with weak sucking ability, the appropriate feeding method should be selected based on the individual condition of the infant and the physician's recommendations. Close observation of the infant's response and adaptation during feeding is necessary, with timely adjustments to feeding strategies to ensure adequate nutritional support.

References:

[1] Wang Liangliang, Guo Yunhui, Bao Yongfang, et al. Meta-analysis of the effect of behavioral intervention oral feeding model on preterm infants in NICU [J]. Qilu Nursing Journal, 2024, 30(19): 101-105.

[2] Xie Sijia, Lv Kairong, Yan Shiqiong, et al. Research progress on complete oral feeding interventions for preterm infants [J]. Nursing Research, 2024, 38(17): 3123-3127.

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