These are used when the medical staff needs frequent access to the baby for care. Nutrition and Growth Premature babies have special nutritional needs because they grow at a faster rate than full-term babies and their digestive systems are immature. Breast milk is an excellent source of nutrition, but premature infants are too immature to feed directly from the breast or bottle until they are 32 to 34 postconceptional weeks old. Breast milk can be pumped by the mother and fed to the premature baby through a tube that goes from the baby's nose or mouth into the stomach. Breast milk has an advantage over formula because it contains proteins that help fight infection and promote growth.
Some premature babies receive additional vitamin supplements, too.
For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.