What Is an NG (Nasogastric) Tube? A Guide for Parents
If your baby requires extra support with feeding, their medical team may recommend a nasogastric (NG) tube. For many parents, this can feel overwhelming, but understanding how an NG tube works can help you feel more confident in your baby’s care.
In this guide, we’ll explain what an NG tube is, why babies need them, how they work, and what to expect if your baby requires one.
What Is an NG Tube?
An NG (nasogastric) tube is a thin, soft tube that is placed through the nose and into the stomach. It is used to provide breast milk, formula, or medication to babies who cannot feed effectively on their own.
Unlike a G-tube (gastrostomy tube), which is surgically placed in the stomach, an NG tube is inserted non-surgically and is typically used for short-term feeding support.
Why Do Babies Need an NG Tube?
Babies may require an NG tube for a variety of reasons, including:
Prematurity – Many preterm babies lack the coordination needed to suck, swallow, and breathe at the same time.
Medical Conditions – Babies with conditions such as reflux, neurological disorders, heart defects, or airway problems may have difficulty feeding orally.
Low Muscle Tone or Weak Suck – Some babies do not have the strength to feed effectively and need additional support.
Poor Weight Gain – If a baby is unable to take in enough nutrition by mouth, an NG tube ensures they receive the calories they need to grow.
NG tubes are often used in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) but can also be used at home if a baby still needs feeding support after discharge.
How Does an NG Tube Work?
Once placed, the NG tube allows food or medication to be delivered directly to the stomach.
Types of NG Tube Feedings:
Continuous Feeding – Milk or formula is delivered slowly over several hours using a pump.
Bolus Feeding – Larger amounts of milk or formula are given at set times, similar to traditional feeding schedules.
Most NG tubes are used temporarily until a baby can safely feed by mouth.
What to Expect If Your Baby Has an NG Tube
It’s completely normal to have concerns about your baby’s comfort and safety. Here are a few key things to know:
Your baby can still bond with you! NG tubes do not prevent snuggles, skin-to-skin contact, or eye contact.
Oral feeding may still be encouraged. Depending on your baby’s ability, they may still be able to practice breastfeeding or bottle feeding while using an NG tube.
Your medical team will train you. If your baby needs an NG tube at home, you will receive guidance on managing tube care, feedings, and troubleshooting.
Caring for an NG Tube at Home
If your baby is discharged with an NG tube, your healthcare team will teach you how to:
Check Tube Placement – Ensuring the tube is correctly positioned before each feeding.
Administer Feeds – Using a syringe or pump to provide the proper amount of nutrition.
Secure the Tube – Gently taping the tube to your baby’s cheek to keep it in place.
Watch for Signs of Issues – Monitoring for gagging, vomiting, or displacement of the tube.
With practice, many parents become comfortable with managing an NG tube at home.
Transitioning to Oral Feeding
As your baby grows and gains strength, they will likely transition to full oral feeding. This process happens gradually and may involve:
Non-nutritive sucking (such as pacifier use) to build oral strength.
Gradual introduction of bottle or breastfeeding while supplementing with the NG tube.
Monitoring weight gain and intake to ensure your baby is getting enough nutrition.
Your healthcare team will guide you through this transition based on your baby’s individual progress.
Time to Grow
An NG tube can feel intimidating at first, but it is a lifesaving tool that ensures babies receive the nutrition they need to grow and thrive. While it may take time to adjust, your medical team is there to support you every step of the way.
At NEOwell, we are committed to helping parents navigate the challenges of NICU care, feeding difficulties, and infant development. Follow us for expert-backed resources and support!