Keep track of your baby’s weight
While still in the hospital, particularly in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), the healthcare team will monitor your baby’s weight daily. Please note that your baby may lose some weight (+/- 10%) in the first few days (mostly water weight).
But knowing that your baby will soon gain weight may help give you a sense of relief. The rate by which they gain weight varies: tiny preemies may gain just 5 grams daily, while babies born at 33 weeks or more may gain 20 to 30 grams a day.
Your doctor will not allow your baby to go home until he or she is steadily gaining weight and when they can fully take feedings by mouth without supplemental gavage feeding.
As much as possible, spend time with your baby
One of the most helpful premature baby weight gain tips is to spend time with your preemie as much as your—and their—situation allows.
At least one study shows that maternal interaction (speaking to your infant, touching them and holding them close to you, called “skin to skin contact”) helps premature babies grow and gain more weight. For this reason, take advantage of the time given to you to interact with your little one.
Most hospitals allow mothers to enter the nursery to feed their baby or promote skin contact. Just be sure to follow protocols, like proper handwashing and wearing the appropriate protective equipment to reduce infection risk.
Once discharged, follow your preemie’s feeding plan
And finally, one of the weight gain tips for a premature baby is to adhere to the doctor-approved feeding plan.
Don’t be tempted to feed your baby aggressively because their intestines are not yet fully mature. Ask your doctor about how much they need to receive and how frequent their feedings must be.
If you’re breastfeeding, learn about proper positioning and latching. If you cannot breastfeed, discuss with your doctor about the most appropriate way to feed for your infant.
Learn more about Premature Babies here.
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