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The Use of Human Milk and Breastfeeding in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Time to read: 2 min.

National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN)
Position Statement #3065, Revised January 2026

A newly updated Position Statement from the National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN) reaffirms human milk as a lifesaving medical intervention in the NICU and to recognize the critical role of neonatal nurses in establishing and sustaining lactation from day one. Authored by leading experts Diane Spatz and Taryn Edwards, the statement clearly grounds evidence-based pumping pathways as standard of care, including:

  • Early initiation with hospital-grade initiation technology™
  • Pumping at least 5 times per day, with a goal of 8 to support long-term milk supply
  • Oral care with colostrum and early colostrum collection
  • Prioritizing fresh human milk feeding
  • Supporting the transition to at-breast feeding as the clinical goal when possible

 

The statement also reinforces the economic and outcomes-based rationale for providing high-quality pumping technology for NICU families, recognizing that early, consistent lactation support is not only evidence-based care, but cost-effective care.

 

To read the full Position Statement from NANN, click here: Position Statement

 

Additional Information and Resources:

  • Discover new insights from Paula Meier, PhD, RN revealing how decades of “pump more” advice are giving way to evidence supporting a personalized pumping approach to better help mothers achieve secretory activation, coming to volume and reach their full milk making potential.
  • Learn how you can support moms with Lactation Risk Factors early and effectively, so more newborns can receive breast milk, and more families can achieve their breastfeeding goals.
  • Explore the Hospital & Healthcare Professionals Hub for a comprehensive selection of educational materials designed to support mothers and infants.
 

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