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Delayed Lactogenesis Is Associated with Suboptimal Breastfeeding Practices: A Prospective Cohort Study
Li Huang1, Shangzhi Xu1, Xi Chen1
1Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China.
Delayed lactogenesis, or the late onset of milk production, is linked to lower rates of full breastfeeding and shorter breastfeeding duration. Interventions should focus on mothers experiencing delayed lactogenesis to improve breastfeeding success.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Lactation Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Breastfeeding offers significant health advantages for both infants and mothers.
- Limited research exists on the connection between delayed lactogenesis and breastfeeding patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between delayed lactogenesis and breastfeeding practices among women initiating breastfeeding.
- To identify risks associated with delayed lactogenesis in relation to breastfeeding duration and exclusivity.
Main Methods:
- A prospective cohort study in Wuhan, China, involving 2877 pregnant women followed postpartum.
- Maternal lactogenesis assessed at 4 days postpartum; breastfeeding practices queried at 3, 6, and 12 months postpartum.
- Statistical analyses included Poisson and Cox regression to determine associations.
Main Results:
- 17.9% of participants reported delayed lactogenesis.
- Delayed lactogenesis correlated with a higher risk of not sustaining full breastfeeding at 3 and 6 months postpartum.
- Delayed lactogenesis was associated with earlier cessation of any breastfeeding, particularly in women with higher gestational weight gain.
Conclusions:
- Delayed lactogenesis is linked to reduced rates of full breastfeeding and shorter overall breastfeeding duration.
- Targeted support for women experiencing delayed lactogenesis is crucial for enhancing breastfeeding outcomes.
