Table 2 Benefits of feeding at-breast as opposed to bottle feeding expressed breast milk (EBM)
From: Benefits and challenges of transitioning preterm infants to at-breast feedings
Benefits to infant | |
|---|---|
Improved oxygenation and temperature regulation during feedings | • Higher oxygen saturation • Better coordinated sucking, swallowing, breathing pattern • Increased body temperature • Fewer episodes of apnea and bradycardia |
Advantages of skin-to-skin contact | • Increased breast milk volume • Greater production of maternal milk antibodies to pathogens in infant's environment |
Enhanced nutritional and immunological properties of breast milk | • Superior nutritional content lost by freezing, thawing and reheating EBM • Lower risk of bacterial contamination and growth due to handling |
Better oral development | • Optimal mandibular development • Strengthening of the jaw muscles • Increased nasal cavity space • Improved future teeth alignment and decrease in malocclusions • Greater breathing efficiency |
More efficient emptying of the breast | • Greater milk volume in same amount of time as breast pump • Increase in milk volume over time |
Benefits to mother | |
Reduced risk of breast trauma | • Less risk of mastitis with ineffective emptying of breast • Lower risk of damage to nipple from breast pump |
Reduced risks to mothers' health | • Decreased incidence of type 2 diabetes • Reduced risk of breast cancer |
Psychological effects | • Potential reduction in perceived stress and negative mood after feedings |
Practical advantages | • Less time in preparing EBM for feeding and cleaning of supplies • Breast milk at optimal temperature without preparation • Cost savings in not renting or buying an electric breast pump |