Many mothers of premature babies wonder if they can still breast feed their babies. The answer is yes you can, but often it isn't easy. Breast milk is perfect for your premature baby. Colostrum and breast milk have white blood cells, antibodies and immune properties that are important in helping your baby resist infection.

• Breastfeeding can be introduced at 32 weeks or so, as long
  as your baby is stable and well.
• You should begin expressing breast milk as soon as you
  possibly can. As soon as your milk comes in, use a good
  breast pump.
• Try expressing your milk at least 6 to 8 times a day.
• Completely empty your breasts each time.
• Always express your milk into a clean and sterile container.
• Most hospitals will supply these containers.
• If your baby is too premature to use your milk yet, it can be frozen.
• Make sure you put your name and date on the container, the oldest
  milk will be used first.
• To increase your breast milk supply make sure you get plenty of rest
  and lots of fluids.
• You can try increasing the frequency of pumping to increase your supply.
• The nurses and/or a lactation consultant are good sources of advice and support.

Keep in mind that even with the best of intentions, sometimes your breast milk supply decreases if all you can do is pump and your baby is still too premature to breast feed. Even if you've only managed to express a small amount of breast milk and colostrum, it will help your baby.

Check out these web sites for more breast feeding information:

• www.preemie-l.org
• www.home.ca.inter.net

For more information check out these web sites.