Innovations in the provision of human milk and breastfeeding for infants requiring intensive care.

Infant admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit requires that the family receives the scientific rationale for the importance of providing human milk for their child. The initiation and maintenance of maternal milk supply must be a priority. Understanding variation in milk composition is crucial so that the infant receives the most appropriate milk throughout the hospital stay. For mothers who wish to breastfeed, a detailed and planned process is essential to ensure success.