Study of Intranasal Breast Milk Effects on Brain Oxygen Levels, Vital Signs, and Feeding Time in Preterm Babies Born at 28 to 37 Weeks

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the effect of giving breast milk through the nose on brain oxygen levels, vital signs, and the time it takes for preterm infants to start full oral feeding. The study focuses on preterm babies born between 28 and 37 weeks of gestation. Breast milk contains special stem cells that may reach the brain through the nasal passages and help protect against brain damage in newborns. Previous research suggests this method could be tolerated well by preterm infants and might reduce brain injury after bleeding in the brain. In this randomized study, preterm infants in the intervention group will receive 0.2 ml of breast milk administered intranasally three times a day for three days. Breast milk is given by dripping 0.1 ml into each nostril while the baby lies on their back. The control group will not receive any intervention. After the breast milk administration, babies will be fed as usual by the neonatal nurse. This process is repeated at set times 900 AM, 1200 PM, and 300 PM over the three-day period. During the study, researchers will monitor brain oxygen levels, oxygen saturation, heart rate, and breathing rate before and at intervals after the breast milk administration. They will also track feeding details, vomiting, bowel movements, time to full oral feeding, and discharge timing. Data are collected on the first day of hospitalization and throughout the intervention days to assess the effects. The study lasts for the three-day intervention period, with careful observation and recording of vital signs and feeding progress.

Effect of Intranasal Breast Milk Administration in Preterm Infants