Direct-breastfeeding in the neonatal intensive care unit and breastfeeding duration for premature infants

Aim: To explore the relationship between direct-breastfeeding in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and breastfeeding duration after discharge. Background: Initiating and maintaining breastmilk feeding is an important goal that begins in the NICU. Little is known about direct-breastfeeding in the NICU and its relation to breastfeeding duration. Methods: Chart review of 46 infants (<. 32 weeks gestational age or <. 1500 grams) whose mothers provided breastmilk. Results: One month after discharge, mothers still providing breastmilk were more likely to have provided ≥. 1 direct-breastfeed per day in the NICU (21.16, CI: 3.13-143.25, p < 0.01) and had prior breastfeeding experience (OR: 9.16, CI: 1.02-82.34, p < 0.05). At 4 months, mothers still providing breastmilk were more likely to have provided ≥. 1 direct-breastfeed per day in the NICU (OR: 12.80, CI: 1.39-118.32, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Direct-breastfeeding in the NICU may play an essential role in preparing mothers for breastfeeding after discharge, thus potentially impacting breastfeeding duration.