The advantage of breast milk feedings for the preterm infant during and after hospitalization are well known. Difficulties transitioning breast milk fed infants to breast feeding, and maintaining breast feeding once home are documented. We completed a randomized clinical trial for the early discharge of 100 infants born at < 1800 grams, < 36 weeks gestation. Infants were randomized to early discharge at 1750-1850 grams (experimental, Exp, n = 51) or traditional discharge [approximately 2000 grams, (control), n = 49]. Families of Exp infants were given extra training by a home care nurse while the infant was hospitalized, and home nursing support as needed. Breast feeding was not specifically encouraged by protocol. Groups are compared for numbers choosing to attempt to breast feed at home(n), birthweight (BW, kg), gestational age (GA, weeks), weight at discharge (d/c wt, kg), and duration of breast feeding once home(weeks on home BM). Mean ± SD values of data are: Table 48% of infants breast fed at home. These data suggest that mothers of breast fed preterm infants often stop breast feeding soon after discharge. Early intervention in discharge planning may promote breast feeding upon nursery discharge. In addition discharging an infant early does not inhibit breast feeding at home. A program aimed at supporting breast feeding at home may benefit this population.

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Funded by Keystone Health Plan East and Paidos Health Care Inc.