Early Oral Motor Stimulation for Promoting Oral Feeding in Preterm Infants: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background and Aims: Preterm infants frequently experience delayed oral feeding due to immature coordination of sucking, swallowing, and breathing. Early oral motor stimulation (OMS) has been proposed as a strategy to promote oral feeding by enhancing neuromuscular coordination. This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effect of OMS on the progression of oral feeding in preterm neonates. Methods: A hospital-based randomized controlled trial was conducted in the NICU at Rohilkhand Medical College and Hospital, Bareilly, from August 2023 to July 2024. Seventy-four preterm infants (26–34 weeks gestation) were enrolled and randomized into two groups. Group 1 received structured OMS with Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) and Non-Nutritive Sucking (NNS), while Group 2 received only KMC and NNS. Ethical clearance and written informed consent were obtained. Feeding outcomes, including time to full gavage, spoon, and breastfeeding, were recorded. Statistical analysis included mean, SD, p-values, and 95% confidence intervals. Results: Group 1 achieved full breastfeeding significantly earlier (15.7 ± 3.21 days) than Group 2 (18.93 ± 4.28 days), p<0.001. Sleep duration between feeds was also significantly longer in Group 1 (p<0.001). No significant differences were observed in weight gain. Conclusion: Early oral motor stimulation enhances feeding outcomes and supports its integration into neonatal care. Key words: Oral Motor Stimulation; Preterm Infants; Neonatal Feeding; Breastfeeding; Randomized Controlled Trial