hello mam.. why is my late preterm baby carrying after feeding.....how can I help my baby to gain fat on his body

Question

hello mam.. why is my late preterm baby carrying after feeding.....how can I help my baby to gain fat on his  body

Accepted Answer

It’s great to hear that your baby is healthy! Since your baby was born late preterm, they might need a little extra support in gaining weight and developing as they grow. Late preterm babies (born between 34-36 weeks) may face some challenges with feeding and weight gain due to their immature digestive systems and increased calorie needs.

Here are some things you can do to help your baby gain weight and ensure they're getting the nutrition they need:

1. Frequent, Small Feedings: Late preterm babies may tire quickly while breastfeeding. Offering smaller, more frequent feedings throughout the day can help them consume more milk. You can try feeding every 2-3 hours during the day.

2. Ensure Proper Latch and Feeding: Make sure your baby is latching properly while breastfeeding. If they are not getting enough milk, they might seem fussy or feed for longer periods. You can also pump and offer expressed milk to see if your baby is getting enough.

3. Fortified Breast Milk or Formula: If you're breastfeeding, your doctor may suggest supplementing with fortified breast milk or formula. There are special formulas designed for babies who need extra calories or are having trouble gaining weight.

4. Monitor Growth: Keep track of your baby’s growth with regular pediatrician check-ups. A pediatrician can assess weight, height, and developmental milestones to ensure your baby is progressing well.

5. Skin-to-Skin Contact: Studies show that skin-to-skin contact (kangaroo care) can improve feeding efficiency and help babies grow by providing emotional comfort and promoting breastfeeding.

6. Add Calorie-Dense Foods After 6 Months: If your baby is 6 months or older, you can begin to introduce solid foods. For weight gain, focus on calorie-dense foods like mashed avocado, pureed sweet potato, or oatmeal made with full-fat milk or formula.

7. Limit Distractions: During feedings, make sure your baby is in a quiet, calm environment. This helps them focus on the feed rather than getting distracted by surroundings.

8. Ensure Comfortable Feeding Position: Make sure your baby is feeding in a comfortable position, as this can help them latch properly and consume more milk. Check if your baby is positioned well during breastfeeding.

9. Follow Up with Your Pediatrician: Regular check-ups are important for monitoring your baby’s growth, and your pediatrician can advise you on how to best support your baby’s feeding and weight gain.

If your baby seems to be gaining weight slowly or has feeding issues, it's best to consult your pediatrician for personalized advice based on your baby’s needs.