The first breastfeed: a content analysis of midwifery textbooks

This paper reviews content related to the first breastfeed in textbooks commonly used in midwifery education programs in Australia. Few scholars have critically examined the adequacy of such information for evidence-based midwifery practice. Five midwifery textbooks were chosen for content analysis specifically related to: skin-to-skin contact for newborn adaptation; orientation and coordination; suckling for effective breastfeeding; instructions to facilitate breastfeeding initiation; breast structure and function; and breastfeeding promotion. A score was calculated with the maximum possible total of 105. The content analysis scores ranged from 35 to 54, with two texts (Lowdermilk, Perry & Bobak 2000; Sweet 1997) scoring 54. Skin-to-skin contact to facilitate breastfeeding initiation is not well promoted in popular midwifery textbooks. Further research to promote midwives access to evidence-based research for effective midwifery practice in relation to breastfeeding initiation is required.