Effect of breast milk odour on time needed to achieve full spoon/paladai feeding in preterm babies-one year hospital based randomized study

Abstract

Background Preterm birth remains a major contributor to neonatal morbidity and mortality globally. One of the most common challenges faced by preterm infants is feeding difficulty due to immature coordination of sucking, swallowing, and breathing. These issues often lead to delayed achievement of full oral feeding, poor weight gain, and extended hospital stay. Olfactory stimulation using maternal breast milk odor has emerged as a non-invasive and cost-effective intervention aimed at enhancing feeding readiness by stimulating the suck reflex and promoting feeding behaviors in preterm infants.