MY PREEMIE’S FAVORITE BOTTLES TO HELP W/ REFLUX
My daughter was born at 33 weeks and spent 15 days in the NICU. The main things they were working on while she was in there were her breathing as well as her suck, swallow, breathe development because this is usually something that is learned in the womb at around 34 weeks. After a couple weeks she met the requirements for her specifically to leave which were- she had to be able to drink fully out of a bottle, and she had to be able to breathe on her own.
Lactation also worked with us before leaving the NICU on breastfeeding after I had completed a full pump because we were just practicing for the future since normal breastfeeding would be too much flow for her at the time, so I was instructed to pump and give her bottles of breastmilk with some preemie formula added that contained extra vitamins and calories that she needed, but breastfeeding was the ultimate goal that we were eventually cleared for.
The first couple months were a STRUGGLE because she basically was always eating because she spit up just about everything she ate most of the time because her stomach was still learning to handle her food and she also struggled big time with reflux. These bottles were a huge life saver during her first few months!! These along with the MAM bottle were the only ones we used religiously for a while because anything else would cause her to spit up too much!
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Feeding a preemie can be challenging, especially when addressing reflux issues. It's essential to choose bottles designed to manage feeding difficulties while ensuring a rich nutrition intake. One of the top choices are Dr. Brown's Anti-colic bottles, which feature a unique internal vent system that helps reduce colic, gas, and reflux by preventing air from mixing with milk. The Philips Avent bottles, particularly their AirFree vent design, also stand out as they allow for a more natural feeding experience while minimizing discomfort from gas. Many parents have found success with MAM bottles, known for their orthodontic nipple shape that promotes healthy oral development. In addition to selecting the right bottles, mixing breast milk with a preemie formula containing added calories can be beneficial. This combination ensures your baby receives vital nutrients while easing the transition from NICU to home. Breastfeeding, although challenging initially, can be gradually introduced as the baby develops the necessary skills to handle milk flow and coordinate suck-swallow-breathe actions appropriately. When dealing with reflux, parents often note the importance of pacing during feeding; ensuring the baby is in a semi-upright position can help reduce spit-up. It's vital to monitor your baby's responses and consult with pediatricians to refine feeding strategies. Whether you're a first-time parent or navigating the complexities of preemie care, sharing experiences and resources can significantly support your journey.
I was a 30 weeker