Could a few drops of milk boost preemie brain and feeding?

NCT ID NCT07216664

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Loyola University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests a simple intervention called M-MILK, where very preterm infants (born before 32 weeks) receive small amounts of human milk by mouth starting at 3 days old. Researchers want to see if this helps babies handle stress, develop their brains, and learn to feed better compared to standard care. The trial will include 125 infants and measure stress hormones, feeding skills, and brain development.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: human milk (mother's own or donor)
What this could lead to: If it works, this simple approach could improve stress regulation, brain development, and feeding skills in very preterm infants.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial with 125 babies, so results may not apply to all preterm infants. The intervention is low-risk but may not show clear benefits.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Infant, Premature, Diseases

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

INFANT, PREMATURE, DISEASES

Contacts and locations

Locations

Loyola University Chicago
RECRUITING

Maywood, Illinois, 60153, United States
Loyola University Medical Center
RECRUITING

Maywood, Illinois, 60153, United States

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