NEWBORN FEEDING

Objectives

The purpose of this presentation is to:1.Discuss the two main methods for

feeding the newborn infant

Baby’s First Year of Life

Growth and Development

Rapid growth and development

Opportunity to

Teach good eating habits

Develop positive feelings about food and caregivers

Most infants will triple their birth weight by 12 months

Purpose of Mealtimes

CommunicationSocializationGiving and receiving loveSharing personal valuesCelebrationPhysical growth and healthSensory explorationRelaxation, habit

Feeding Relationship

Feeding is a reciprocal relationship that depends on the abilities and characteristics of both the parent and the child.

(Ellyn Satter)

Responsibility of Caregiver

Decides the type of food (human or commercial)

Provides appropriate flow rate of milkFeed the baby promptly when hungryOffers bottle at appropriate angleMinimizes distractions during meal

Responsibility of Infant

Gives permission for nipple to enter mouth

Uses mealtime social pausesLet’s caregiver know when it’s time for

burpingStops eating when full

How Often to Breastfeed?

Nurse every 2 hours.

In the first few daysMilk is low in volumeHigh in nutrientsBaby will have 1 or 2 wet diapers a

day

How Often to Breastfeed?

After milk supply has increasedBaby should have 5 to 6 wet diapers

every day3 to 4 dirty diapers every day

How Much Formula?

Month Fluid Ounces per

Day

Feedings per Day

Fluid Ounces per Feeding

0 to1 16 – 20 oz 8 - 12 1 - 2.5 oz

1 to 2 18 – 26 oz 8 - 10 2 – 4 oz

Correct Bottle Feeding Position

Infant should be Cuddled Held in a semi-upright position during

feedingWhy?

Reduces fluid from pooling at the back of the throat and entering tubes from the middle ear.

Incorrect Bottle Feeding Position

Hazards of infant self feeding

ChokingOverfeedingInability to bond

with caregiver

Don'ts of Bottle Feeding

Do not prop the bottle (self feeding)Do not allow baby to carry bottle

aroundDo not allow the baby to keep bottle in

mouth while asleepDo not put cereal or sweet drinks

Burping

Done during and after feedingWait until baby stops drinkingHold baby in one of two positions (shoulder

or lap)Gently stroke/pat back

Why Burp?Releases stomach gas Prevents regurgitation

Infant Feeding in Emergencies

Breastfeeding is best

If Formula IS Necessary…

Ready-to-feed is THE formula of choice!

Use concentrated or powder formula only if bottled or boiled water is available.