Cup feeding is an alternative feeding method that is used to provide a supplement to a breastfed baby.
Cup feeding for breastfed baby.
Cup feeding can prepare a baby for breastfeeding by encouraging the tongue to come forward for feeding.
The potential for cup feeding as an alternative to bottle feeding for breast fed preterm infants is positively supported by these results it is fundamentally important for nicu professionals to establish a protocol education and training for the potential use of this feeding method for this vulnerable population.
Cup feeding is thought to be a positive oral experience for baby and avoids nipple confusion so helps preserve breastfeeding see below open cups are very easy to clean in resource poor areas or emergencies compared with teats bottles or tubes.
However cup feeding may be a good choice when.
When possible it is always best to breastfeed.
If you and your child can be together and your baby is able to latch on well an alternative feeding method should not be used.