Weaning (Preterm)

• For babies born at full term, the government guidelines recommend they don’t start weaning until 6 months¹.  However, these guidelines do not include preterm babies
• It is recommended that a preterm infant should start weaning between 5 and 7 months old using their chronological age from birth ^2,3
• Preterm infants benefit from earlier weaning than a term infant because they have nutrient deficits due to their prematurity
• As with term infants weaning should commence when signs of being ready are shown, such as:
  • The infant can be easily supported in a sitting position
  • They are showing interest in other people eating
  • They are putting things into their mouth
  • They seem less satisfied with milk alone
  • They appear ready for something new
• It is better to wait until an infant is ready to start weaning, rather than rush into it.  A preterm baby’s digestive system may not be developed enough to take solids before 5 months and parents may reduce the amount of breast milk or infant formula in favour of solids.  This may lead to inadequate growth if the baby is not taking in enough milk or solids and therefore not getting the right intake of nutrients
• It is important that weaning is not delayed too long⁴.  At around 4 months, infants are able to use their mouth to explore food and toys⁵.  Starting solids shortly after these chewing movements begin helps with the development of the mouth and jaw muscles
• At around 5 to 7 months preterm infants are usually willing to try new flavours, however as they get older they may become more reluctant to do this
• All young babies, especially those infants born prematurely require support of their head and back when they are being weaned to minimise the risk of choking

For more information to use with parents on looking after preterm infants, visit the charity BLISS www.bliss.org.uk