Percent mother’s own milk feedings for preterm neonates predicts discharge feeding outcomes

Introduction No studies have determined if there is a threshold whereby use of mother’s own milk (MOM) during hospitalization predicts exclusive MOM feeding at discharge. Methods Among 113 very low birthweight neonates, the ratio of MOM to enteral feeds was measured in the first 14 days, 28 days, and overall hospital stay. The primary outcome was exclusive MOM feeding at discharge. Results For every 1% increase in MOM consumption in the first 14 and 28 days, the odds of being discharge home on an exclusive MOM diet increased nearly 7-fold (OR 7.01, 95% CI: 2.09–23.50) and 17-fold (OR 17.46, 95% CI 4.67–63.31), respectively. A threshold of >50%, >83%, and >85% MOM consumption compared to overall enteral feeds in the first 14 days, 28 days, and throughout hospitalization, respectively, is recommended. Conclusions Promotion of MOM consumption in the first 2–4 weeks is of paramount importance, with negligible impact of increasing MOM consumption after 28 days.