title: Breast-feeding in preterm twins: Development of feeding behavior and milk intake during hospital stay and related caregiving practices.
abstract: In a prospective study of 13 preterm twins still in the hospital, 85% were breast-fed, of which 46% were breast-fed exclusively. Most mothers preferred simultaneous breast-feeding, using the football hold. Observations and maternal descriptions showed differences between the twins in their development of breast-feeding behavior, especially in sucking. The mothers' suggestions regarding special support for the breast-feeding mothers of preterm twins involved synchronizing feeding with the twins' behavioral states; twin cobedding; appropriate armchairs and breast-feeding pillows; experimenting with breast-feeding positions; information about breast milk production; nurses' spontaneous practical assistance, encouragement, and emotional support; the provision of privacy; the availability of parent rooms; and opportunities for fathers' presence in the hospital.
authors.affiliation: Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Sweden. Kerstin.Hedberg_Nyqvist@kbh.uu.se
authors.forename: Kerstin Hedberg
authors.initials: KH
authors.lastname: Nyqvist
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001942:Breast Feeding; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D005260:Female; D006272:Health Facility Environment; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D008297:Male; D011187:Posture; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012944:Social Support; D013391:Sucking Behavior; D013548:Sweden; D014427:Twins