The use of human milk for premature infants

The use of fortified human milk provides the premature infant adequate grow th, nutrient retention, and biochemical indices of nutritional status, espe cially when fed at appropriate volumes, compared with unfortified human mil k. When compared with preterm formula, the feeding of fortified human milk may provide significant protection from infection and necrotizing enterocol itis. Neonatal centers should encourage the feeding of fortified human milk for premature infants. Skin-to-skin contact is a reasonable method to enha nce milk production, while potentially facilitating the development of an e nteromammary response.