Enteral feeding in the preterm infant

In planning enteral feeding in the preterm infant, decisions need to be made regarding the feeding schedule, choice of milk, and the route of administration. Feeds should be commenced within a week after birth beginning with subnutritional quantities. Preterm human milk from the infant's own mother is the milk of choice. When full enteral feeding is established, supplementation with human milk fortifier is recommended. Donor human milk and preterm formula are alternatives. Early establishment of enteral nutrition and maintenance of optimal nutrition during infancy are important as dietary manipulations in preterm infants have potential long-term influences on their health, growth and neurodevelopment.