Objective To evaluate whether a specific period after birth (in weeks postmenstrual age [PMA]) and specific elements of sucking are associated with abnormal neurodevelopmental outcomes at age 2 years using a longitudinal approach. Study design Fifty-two preterm infants participated in this longitudinal …

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the development of sucking patterns in small-for-gestational age (SGA) preterm infants differs from appropriate-for-gestational age (AGA) preterm infants. STUDY DESIGN: We assessed sucking patterns in 15 SGA and 34 AGA preterms (gestational age

The studies reported on in this thesis addressed the development of sucking patterns in preterm newborns. Preterm infants often have problems learning to suckle at the breast or to drink from a bottle. It is unclear whether this is due to their preterm birth or whether it is the consequence of neurological …