At first the baby may be too weak or have too much trouble breathing to nurse or feed from a bottle. However, there are ways the baby can get fluids and calories for growth without nursing. Later, when he is stronger, he can nurse. This IV fluid contains sugar to give the baby energy. When a baby has serious breathing problems, he is not well enough to begin feedings right away.
All babies lose weight during the first days of life because their bodies get rid of extra water.
The smallest babies may take several weeks to regain their birth weight. After several days, if milk feedings cannot be started, your baby will begin receiving hyperalimentation fluids. They contain sugar, protein, minerals, and fats. These fluids will give your baby calories to start growing. Very small premature babies often need several weeks of hyperalimentation before they are ready to begin milk feedings.