How to switch from preterm formula to regular formula?

Written by Zhao Li Li

Obstetrics

Updated on September 16, 2024

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Generally, in the early stages of preterm infants, it is still necessary to feed them promptly with preterm formula. Since the gastrointestinal function of preterm infants is relatively weak, they may not be able to digest and absorb some full-term formula, which can easily increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract. If the baby's development is currently good, you can switch to ordinary formula. During the transition between two formula brands, there should first be a gradual shift; you can start by mixing the two formulas, using more preterm formula and less ordinary formula. Gradually switch to the new ordinary formula brand, reducing the amount of preterm formula, allowing the baby to adapt gradually.

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Written by Zhang Lu

Obstetrics

1min 3sec

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Will early engagement of the fetus lead to premature birth?

Fetal engagement refers to the leading part of the fetus having entered into the woman's pelvis. There isn't a necessary correlation between fetal engagement and preterm birth; however, fetal engagement could indicate a possibility of preterm birth or an upcoming labor. It is important to pay attention to the timing of fetal engagement and the expectant mother's sensations post-engagement. Firstly, for the vast majority of pregnant women, fetal engagement should occur after week 32 or 34. Early engagement should prompt attention to the presence of other clinical symptoms. Secondly, be mindful if there are feelings of descent or abdominal pain after the fetal engagement. Regular checks of the cervical canal length should be conducted if these sensations frequently occur. If the cervical canal is progressively shortening, it may suggest a risk of preterm birth. If there is no shortening of the cervical canal, it means that the fetal engagement and these clinical symptoms are unlikely to cause preterm birth.

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Written by Liu Wen Li

Obstetrics

55sec

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Premature birth: Cesarean section or natural delivery?

Whether to opt for cesarean or vaginal delivery for preterm birth needs a comprehensive grasp of the pregnant woman's entire condition before assessing and deciding on the mode of childbirth. First, it's necessary to check if the woman has any complications and the severity of these complications, as well as whether her physical condition allows for vaginal delivery. Additionally, the changes in fetal heart rate must be considered. If the fetal heart rate is particularly poor, and the duration of vaginal delivery is long such that the child cannot endure it, then a cesarean section may be needed. Beyond these conditions, it is also important to evaluate the state of the pelvis, the size of the fetus, and the condition of the cervix. Generally, if vaginal delivery is possible for preterm births, it is still encouraged.

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Written by Liu Wen Li

Obstetrics

52sec

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Does placenta previa cause preterm birth?

Placenta previa is likely to lead to premature birth. Why is that? Placenta previa refers to the condition where the placenta is positioned lower in the uterus, and the most common symptom is recurrent, painless bleeding during pregnancy. This is because the low-lying placenta often leads to frequent bleeding. If the bleeding is minimal, there is still hope to maintain the pregnancy, allowing the fetus to grow longer inside the uterus. However, in the event of heavy bleeding, if the baby remains in the uterus without delivery, a critical situation can arise due to blood loss, potentially leading to the disappearance of fetal heart activity. At this point, the pregnancy would need to be terminated, thus often resulting in premature birth.

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Written by Zhang Lu

Obstetrics

59sec

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What are the causes of premature birth?

Preterm birth refers to delivery between 28 and 36+6 weeks of pregnancy. Due to the lighter weight and lower maturity of the fetus at this stage, the survival rate of newborns is often reduced. The causes of preterm birth include the following aspects: First, the presence of vaginal inflammation can easily lead to premature rupture of membranes, which in turn triggers contractions and can lead to preterm labor. Second, in twin or multiple pregnancies, the increased irritability of the uterine wall can easily cause spontaneous contractions, which in turn lead to preterm labor. Third, an excess of amniotic fluid can increase the pressure inside the amniotic cavity, easily stimulating spontaneous uterine contractions or premature rupture of membranes. Additionally, if the cervical canal is congenitally short, or if there has been previous cervical surgery, this can also easily lead to preterm labor.

home-news-image

Written by Zhao Li Li

Obstetrics

51sec

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How to switch from preterm formula to regular formula?

Generally, in the early stages of preterm infants, it is still necessary to feed them promptly with preterm formula. Since the gastrointestinal function of preterm infants is relatively weak, they may not be able to digest and absorb some full-term formula, which can easily increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract. If the baby's development is currently good, you can switch to ordinary formula. During the transition between two formula brands, there should first be a gradual shift; you can start by mixing the two formulas, using more preterm formula and less ordinary formula. Gradually switch to the new ordinary formula brand, reducing the amount of preterm formula, allowing the baby to adapt gradually.