Your baby may not be fed milk at first in the intensive care unit. Initially, fluids will be given through a plastic tube into a vein.  

In most cases, once your baby's condition improves milk feeds will be given through a gastric tube, which goes from the mouth or nose into the stomach.

Although your baby is not yet able to suck, he or she can be given your breast milk via the feeding tube. Your breast milk can also be frozen and stored for later use.  

For information on how to establish your milk supply and how to collect, store and transport human milk safely, contact the nurse in charge of your baby's care in the intensive care unit.  

Advice, reading material and support is available 24 hours a day from the Australian Breastfeeding Association. When it is not possible to use your own milk, formula will be given.