Breastfeeding Your Baby in the NICU

Benefits for Mom and Baby

As the mother of a baby in the NICU, we strongly encourage you to provide human milk, for your baby.  Human milk is the best food for all babies, even if they are born early. We have provided this basic information to help you get started even though your baby may not yet be ready to actually feed at the breast. In time, as the baby grows and becomes stronger, the baby will be placed to the breast.

The NICU at Ball Memorial Hospital supports your decision to breastfeed and wants your breastfeeding experience to be successful. The unit has several internationally board-certified lactation consultants who work primarily with mothers and infants in the NICU, we are here to provide you with the support you will need to assist you in meeting your individual breastfeeding goals. Breastfeeding an infant in the NICU is different than breastfeeding a full-term baby. We can help you establish and maintain a milk supply with an electric breast pump, as well as provide guidance when your baby is ready to nurse.

Other pages:

Pumping

Storing your breastmilk

If you are still undecided about how you will feed your baby, we hope you will consider the many benefits of breastfeeding. Many mothers begin pumping while they are making their decision, to provide human milk for the early feedings. Human milk is most easily tolerated and the preferred source of nutrition for premature and sick infants. Studies suggest that human milk reduces the incidence of some infections in both premature and full-term babies. Many mothers tell us that providing their baby with their milk is a comfort to them during this difficult time – it’s something only they can do for their baby.

There are occasionally situations that prevent mothers from breastfeeding. If you have any questions related to your ability to breastfeed or your breastfeeding goals, we’d be happy to discuss them with you.

If you have decided to breastfeed, or have any questions about breastfeeding, please inform your Mom/Baby nurse and NICU nurses as soon as possible. 

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Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

2401 University Ave.

Muncie, IN 47303

(765) 747-3370