Use of At-Breast Supplementers to Facilitate Feeding Solely at the Breast for Infants with Retrognathia: Two Case Studies.

Objective: Infants with significant retrognathia often have difficulty forming a latch adequate to establish exclusive breastfeeding. This article describes the use of at-breast supplementers (ABSs) to facilitate extended breastfeeding relationships, even when supplementation is necessary for growth. Methods: Two cases are described where infants with severe retrognathia initially struggled with weight gain necessitating supplementation but were able to ultimately exclusively feed at-breast with the use of ABSs. Results: While the two cases differed in the form of supplemental milk used and duration of ABS use, both dyads breastfed for beyond 2 years. Conclusions: Feeding solely at the breast and subsequent extended breastfeeding may be possible even for infants who require supplementation, including those with anatomical or functional challenges such as retrognathia. The ABS is a relatively simple system that may be beneficial for difficulties such as poor latch and low milk supply. More awareness and education is needed so that clinicians consider supporting dyads with this approach.

Effects of Oral Stimulation and Supplemental Nursing System on the Transition Time to Full Breast of Mother and Sucking Success in Preterm Infants: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of oral stimulation and a supplemental nursing system on the time to full maternal breastfeeding and sucking success in preterm infants. The sample consisted of 70 preterm babies. Oral motor stimulation and a supplemental nursing system were applied to the preterm infants in the experimental group, while no intervention was applied to those in the control group. Significant differences were found between the two groups concerning transition time to oral feeding, transition weight, transition time to full maternal breast, discharge age, duration, and weight, LATCH mean scores, continuing to suck in the first month after discharge, and weight averages. Oral stimulation and a supplemental nursing system shortened the transition period to oral feeding and full breastfeeding, increased breastfeeding rates and the sustainability of breastfeeding, and did not affect the period of discharge and vital signs during feeding in preterm babies.