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Unsupplemented breastfeeding in the maternity ward. Positive long-term effects
G Nylander1, R Lindemann, E Helsing
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ullevaal Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
Acta Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Early and frequent breastfeeding, without routine supplements, supports healthy infant weight gain and longer lactation duration. This approach ensures newborns receive adequate nutrition and promotes successful breastfeeding outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal care
- Lactation studies
- Infant nutrition
Background:
- Maternity ward feeding practices significantly impact infant outcomes.
- Previous routines often included routine substitute feeds, potentially affecting breastfeeding success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of earlier, more frequent breastfeeding and elimination of routine supplements.
- To assess infant weight changes, hyperbilirubinemia, hypoglycemia, and breastfeeding duration.
Main Methods:
- A quasi-experimental study comparing feeding routines before and after an intervention.
- Intervention group: earlier, frequent breastfeeding, no routine supplements.
- Control group: standard care with routine supplements.
Main Results:
- Intervention group showed increased breast milk volume and decreased formula/sugar solution use.
- Infants in the intervention group experienced greater initial weight loss but regained birth weight faster.
- Sustained breastfeeding at 6 months was higher in the intervention group (87% vs. 66%).
- Weight curves were comparable until 9 months; no significant differences in hyperbilirubinemia or hypoglycemia.
Conclusions:
- Healthy, full-term infants typically do not require supplements with early and frequent breastfeeding.
- A "physiological" breastfeeding start may positively influence the duration of lactation.
- The study supports evidence-based practices for optimizing infant feeding in maternity wards.