How Does a Baby Move from TPN to Full Breast or Bottle Feeding?
If a baby has started on TPN, moving to full breast or bottle feeding may take 3–4 weeks. This depends on the baby’s gestational age. A baby is often able to feed from your breast or a bottle by 32–34 weeks gestation. Gavage feeding may be tried first with younger preemies. In any case, the baby is started on a small amount of breast milk or formula. The amount of breast or formula feedings is increased as the baby grows stronger. At the same time, TPN is decreased. The goal over time is to work up to full feeding. This is often calculated as 150–180 mL of breast milk or formula, per kilogram, per day. In some cases, a baby who is having a medical problem may need to go back to TPN for a time. If this happens, breast milk or formula feeding will be started again when the baby is ready.
