Breastmilk is advocated as optimum nutrition for preterm infants. Although many mothers of preterm infants provide breastmilk for their infants, the transition to nursing at the breast is less successful. We examined the rate of nursing at the breast for preterm infants before and after a lactation support program was established. We prospectively enrolled 50 mothers and infants between May and October 1990 and a further 50 between December 1995 and May 1996. After the first time period, lactation support was intensified through the development of “Breastfeeding Guidelines” which include maternal-newborn contact (Kangaroo Care), early breastfeeding of stable infants (as early as 30 weeks gestation), breastfeeding “on demand” prior to discharge, and pharmacological means (Metoclopramide) of stimulating maternal milk production if necessary. Mothers did not differ in age (29 ± 3.5 yr; 27 ± 4.4 yr) or education (13.5 ± 2.6 yr; 13.4 ± 2.7 yr). Infants did not differ in mean birthweight(2018 ± 700 g; 1970 ± 720 g), mean gestational age (32.8± 3.75 wk; 32.7 ± 4.49 wk) or complications during the neonatal period. Rates of nursing at the breast at discharge increased from 29/50 in 1990 to 41/50 in 1996 (p<.05). Frequency of continued nursing at the breast 6 weeks after discharge increased from 17/50 in 1990 to 28/50 in 1996(p<.05). Data indicate that timely and appropriate lactation support, including pharmacological measures, can improve breastfeeding outcomes for preterm infants.
