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There are many different types of formulas. Which type you choose depends largely on what your doctor recommends. Some come in a ready-to-go liquid form. Others are powders that you must mix with water. Still others are concentrated liquids that you must add water to. In every case, follow the instructions on the packaging. Once you have prepared a formula, you should refrigerate it until use and use it within 24 hours. It is advisable to make a day's batch all at one time. This will reduce the time you need to spend mixing the formula. Wash your hands and any utensils or bottles you use thoroughly. Let bottles dry in the air. Keep your formula cool before use but heat it up prior to use. To do so, place it in a container with warm water for five minutes. Avoid heating formula in the microwave. To coax your premature baby to eat, sit in a calm, quiet, and peaceful environment. Avoid harsh sunlight or artificial lighting. Choose a cushioned, supportive chair in which you too will feel comfortable. Using the instructions you learned at hospital, hold your baby in his correct position and attempt to feed. Help your baby want to feed by giving your child oral stimulation. To do so, use your finger to gently touch your baby's cheeks, mouth, tongue, and gums. Complete this action before and after you feed. After this process, put the bottle in your baby's mouth. Remember that just like in the hospital, feeding can take a longer time with a premature baby. Consider watching a movie (nothing with too loud of sounds) or reading a book. Halfway through the feeding, place the baby upright and over your shoulder. Gently pat her back for one to three minutes. Continue feeding after she has burped. Then at the end of the feeding, burp her again. Premature babies' digestive systems are particularly sensitive. If your baby's stool forms and patterns change for more than two or three days, call your doctor. Your child might need a different formula or you might need to feed more or less often. He also could be developmentally unable to bottle feed regularly. Signs of discomfort include hiccups, coughing, gagging, excessive spit-up, crying, biting, head turning, turning blue, and fanning of the fingers. If your child exhibits these symptoms, stop feeding immediately. Also, consult your doctor. Even though she might not have teeth, you want to protect her gums. After feeding, wipe her gums with a clean, moistened cloth. You also can purchase an infant toothbrush and use it with warm (not hot or too cold) water.
Learn how to prepare formulas. Sit in a quiet location. Feed your baby. Burp your baby. Watch for signs of poor feeding. Clean your baby's mouth.