Breastfeeding Special Babies

by Rachel

Not all babies are born normal; some babies are born under different circumstances which will also lead them to have specialized breastfeeding process tailor-made to fit their needs. If you are nursing a special baby, it doesn’t mean that he or she needs less milk supply than a normal baby. You should really make it a point to express more milk for your special baby because these babies need it the most.

For the case of premature babies, the breast milk that should be given to them should be thoroughly clean to aid in their recovery and growing process. If your baby is born prematurely and should be checked in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), the breast milk will be given to your baby through a syringe.

In order to have ample amount of breast milk supply, which a premature baby needs dearly, it is recommended that you use a hospital grade pump. Ameda has a wonderful line that can help you give more milk to your premature baby. You also have to make sure that the pump that you are using is sterilized to avoid giving germs to your baby. Remember that since your baby is born prematurely, there is a chance that their immune system is not yet developed which will make it easier for your baby to catch diseases, so you have to make sure that everything you are giving your baby is clean.

If you are nursing a baby with Down’s syndrome, which is a disability affecting millions of Americans, you should know that breastfeeding these babies have added benefits to them. These are: improved tongue and mouth coordination, stronger respiratory system and promotes the special bond between mother and baby.

Most babies with this syndrome are also very sleepy all the time so it is important that you pattern your breastfeeding cycle to fit their sleeping patterns.

If you are nursing for a special baby, then you must know that you are doing the best that you can for your baby. They need all the help they can get and breast milk will surely help them grow and be healthier, not just now but in the future as well.