Neonatal difficulty in feeding at breast

This code signifies a newborn's struggle or inability to effectively feed directly from the mother's breast. This can manifest as poor latch, weak suck, insufficient milk transfer, or refusal to nurse, leading to inadequate nutritional intake. It represents a primary feeding difficulty originating in the neonatal period.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a neonate (birth to 28 days old) is experiencing problems with breastfeeding. This includes scenarios such as infant-related latching issues, suckling difficulties, or ineffective milk removal, as observed by healthcare providers or reported by the mother. Supporting documentation would include feeding assessments, weight loss/gain patterns, and notes on feeding attempts.

• Do not use for maternal factors affecting breastfeeding (e.g., insufficient milk supply, painful nipples); those are coded separately.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "at breast" to differentiate from bottle-feeding difficulties.
• Consider co-reporting with codes for associated conditions contributing to the feeding difficulty, such as prematurity or oral anomalies, if applicable.