The slow-gaining breastfeeding infant.

Several options are outlined for caring for the slow-gaining breastfed infant when the goal is to continue breastfeeding. A review of pertinent causative factors and simple management solutions are included. Infants with organic causes of slow weight gain can safely be breastfed by using a feeding tube device at the breast. Other feeding options can be explored with the parents, but safety, comfort of the infant, energy conservation, the parents' emotional and time capabilities, and long-term ability to maintain lactation must be considered. A careful follow-up plan is outlined, mostly for encouragement until the problem is corrected and the infant weans himself from the feeding tube if supplementation was required.