What is oral immune therapy and why is it so important for my preterm baby?

Oral immune therapy, or sometimes referred to "OIT" is a way to help protect premature babies by giving them very small amounts of their parent’s breast milk—just a few drops onto the surface of their cheeks where is gets absorbed very easily. This is done right away, even before they are ready to feed by mouth.

A parent's milk is full of antibodies and protective factors that help fight infection and support the baby’s immune system. When we place these drops in the baby’s mouth, the lining of the mouth absorbs those protective substances and sends signals to the baby’s immune system to get stronger.

For preterm infants, who are at higher risk for infections and complications, this early exposure to their parent's milk can make a big difference. It’s a safe, gentle therapy that helps give their bodies extra protection right from the start.