Preterm babies often have trouble learning to feed by mouth and may need extra help with oral stimulation.
A study in Italy looked at whether there was a difference in the time it took for infants to switch to full oral feeding when parents, instead of healthcare professionals, did the stimulation. The study found no major difference in feeding time, but parents being involved helped with family bonding.
The Premature Infant Oral Motor Intervention (PIOMI) is a simple 5-minute oral stimulation that professionals usually do, but parents can learn it easily with some training. Since parents helping with PIOMI does not harm the baby and boosts parental confidence, it is a good way for parents to support their baby’s development at the hospital and at home.
Ask your neonatal or healthcare team for more information.
GFCNI
Global Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants
GFCNI works to improve newborn health by advocating for high-quality, accessible, and equitable care, long-term follow-up, and continuing care for both mother and infant in each region of the world.
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