Which feeding method is recommended for infants born at less than 28 weeks gestation?

Infants born at less than 28 weeks gestation are considered extremely preterm and often face significant challenges regarding their feeding and nutritional needs. At this early stage in their development, these infants typically have underdeveloped digestive systems, making oral feeding unsafe due to their inability to coordinate sucking, swallowing, and breathing effectively.

Intravenous (IV) feeding, also known as total parenteral nutrition (TPN), is the preferred method for providing nutrition in such cases. This method administers essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract entirely. This approach is crucial as it allows for safe and effective nutrition while minimizing the risk of feeding intolerance or aspiration, which are significant concerns in extremely preterm infants.

Tube feeding is not the best initial method for these infants, as it usually involves using a nasogastric tube to deliver milk directly to the stomach. While tube feeding may be utilized as they grow and their condition stabilizes, it is still considered after IV nutrition has been established to ensure that the infant’s nutritional needs are met safely. Exclusive breastfeeding and oral feeding are not feasible for infants at this gestational age due to the risks associated with their underdeveloped abilities to feed orally. Thus, IV feeding is the most