How to Breast-Feed a Baby with Down Syndrome

Babies born with Down Syndrome or other physical and mental challenges need the benefits of breast milk as much as, and maybe even more than, other babies. Building a healthy nursing relationship with a special-needs child may be difficult, but is beneficial to both the child and the mother.

Instructions

1

Try to nurse soon after your baby is born. You will face a lot of stress and conflicting emotions whether or not you were expecting a special-needs child. Focus, as early as possible and as best you can, on your baby's health and comfort.

2

Provide as much colostrum and breast milk as possible for your baby. Babies with Down Syndrome are susceptible to infections, and your milk will help to boost your baby's immune system.

3

Obtain a pump if your baby is reluctant to nurse or has low muscle tone and poor sucking ability. Build and maintain your milk supply by using the pump as often as necessary.

4

Be patient: it may take a few weeks for your baby to learn to nurse. In the meantime, pump your milk for your baby and feed him through a supplemental nursing system (SNS), bottle, syringe, or other feeding system.

5

Spend time with your baby skin-to-skin when you nurse him. This extra contact gives your baby the extra stimulation he needs to develop as fully as possible.

6

Stimulate your baby to nurse even if he is sleepy or sluggish; this will help him gain weight.

7

Carry your baby in a front carrier or sling to provide extra stimulation and easy nursing access.

8

Get support. Your local La Leche League or other breastfeeding support group can help you and can recommend other groups that are specifically tailored to the needs of your child.