Occasionally, it may not be possible to breastfeed your baby or even express breastmilk
Occasionally, it may not be possible to breastfeed your baby or even express breastmilk. Find out whether the hospital has a breastmilk bank, and how to access this. If not, you can give your baby formula. Speak to the doctors and nurses about this.
If your baby has been born prematurely, breastmilk is best for your baby's immature gut. However, if you are unable to breastfeed or express your breastmilk, your baby may be given formula, IV hydration or dextrose. The hospital staff will talk to you about this.
During this time, it is still important for you to hold your baby skin-to-skin with you as much as possible. This will help to stimulate your breastmilk, keep your baby warm and stabilise your baby's blood sugars.