It is normal to be unsure about breastfeeding. There are many reasons breastfeeding may be difficult for women, and if it is not an option for you, there are other avenues to explore. When possible, the best nutritional option for most babies is having their mother’s breastmilk available for feeding. Thus, it is important to discern whether breastfeeding is an option for you. If you remain unsure, it is always possible to start breastfeeding and decide to stop later when your baby has grown.

• Breast milk will provide your baby with the nutrients they need. Breast milk provides optimal nutrition and contains antibodies (from the mother) that prevent infection, which is especially important in premature babies. If you are unable to supply the breast milk, then donor milk from the Milk Bank or special formula can be provided.
• Suck and swallow reflexes for your infant will develop as they grow, eventually allowing them to be breastfed or, if breastfeeding isn’t possible, bottle-feed.
• Even if you are not planning to breastfeed after your infant has grown, you may still be able to provide breast milk to your baby via feeding tube or bottle while they are still growing in the NICU. You may express your breast with electric or handheld pumps to do this.
• Nurses will help to explain how to effectively pump, store, and transport your breastmilk.
• If able, you will need to pump/express milk from your breasts soon after giving birth, and continue pumping at least 6-8 times/day. Later, when your baby can feed from your breast, the nurse will help develop a feeding plan with you (finding the right combination of breastfeeding and pumping to ensure adequate amounts for your baby).

References:

AbbVie Corporation (Ed.). (2015). Preemie Parent Handbook (4th ed.). Canada: AbbVie Corportation.

B.C. Children's Hospital. (1998). Getting Started: Breastfeeding Your Premature Baby.