Views of Parents’ about Taking Human Milk of Premature Infants

Objective: This descriptive study aims to determine the views of parents that have 32-37 weeks premature babies about babies’ breast feeding. Methods: The research was conducted in Newborn Intensive Care Units in totally six hospitals including one private hospital, two university hospitals, and three state hospitals in Konya city center between July 1 and November 30, 2011. Data were obtained from 100 parents by face to face interviews or by phone. Percentage and chi-square tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: It was determined in the study that 39% of the parents had their first baby. During the study, it was found out that 48% of babies were girl babies, 64% of babies were born by section and 60% of them were born at 32-34 weeks of gestation. It was found that 39% of the babies have other problems except prematurity and 56% of them were followed-up in incubator. It was determined that 66% of the babies were fed with human milk. It was concluded that 40% of babies took human milk by breast feeding, 21% of them by naso-gastric catheter, 15% of them by baby bottle and 24% of them by breast feeding with the support of baby bottle since breast feeding was not sufficient. It was stated by 71% of mothers and 64% of fathers that they know benefits of human milk for premature babies. Additionally, 91% of fathers stated that they want to support to mothers about breast feeding. Conclusion: According to findings, mothers were found having more experience and knowledge than fathers on premature babies taking human milk. Additionally, it was concluded that comprehensive trainings should be given to parents about human milk and breast feeding.