What is a primary role of healthcare providers in assisting patients who wish to provide breastmilk after a preterm delivery?

Teaching the patient how to express milk manually is a primary role of healthcare providers for patients who want to provide breastmilk after a preterm delivery. Manual expression of milk is an important skill that can help mothers establish and maintain their milk supply, especially when their infant is not yet able to nurse directly. It empowers mothers to provide their infants with the nutritional and immunological benefits of breast milk, which is particularly valuable for preterm infants who may have greater nutritional needs and health risks.

By learning to effectively express milk, mothers can also ensure that their milk is available for feeding when their infant is ready, thereby supporting the infant's growth and development in a critical period. This process can also help to initiate lactation and prevent complications like engorgement or mastitis. Providing education and support in this area can significantly enhance the breastfeeding experience and contribute positively to the health outcomes for both the mother and the infant.