Breastfeeding Education: Where Are We Going? A Systematic Review Article
Maria Adriana Burgio1, Antonio Simone Laganà2, Angela Sicilia3
1Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ASST Cremona, Cremona, Italy.
Iranian Journal of Public Health
|December 9, 2016
Summary
Supporting breastfeeding mothers is crucial for reducing global infant morbidity and malnutrition. Healthcare provider training and adequate facilities are essential for successful breastfeeding promotion and support.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
- Nutrition
Background:
- UNICEF and WHO advocate for exclusive breastfeeding for six months to decrease infant morbidity and malnutrition.
- The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) promotes breastfeeding-friendly practices in healthcare settings.
- This study reviews evidence on breastfeeding to inform supportive strategies.
Approach:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major databases (Scopus, PubMed, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Science Direct).
- Keywords included "Breastfeeding education," "Breastfeeding support," and "Breastfeeding healthcare policy."
- Articles published between 1980 and 2015 were analyzed.
Key Points:
- Healthcare providers are pivotal in educating and encouraging breastfeeding mothers.
- Adequate training for healthcare professionals is mandatory for effective breastfeeding support.
- Sufficient healthcare facilities are necessary to promote and sustain breastfeeding practices.
Conclusions:
- Breastfeeding support should be universally provided to all mothers.
- Accurate training for doctors and midwives is strongly encouraged.
- Implementation of adequate facilities is vital for supporting breastfeeding initiatives.
