Down syndrome and breastfeeding: A systematic review
Marina Lummertz Magenis1, Wanessa de Faveri1, Kamila Castro2
1Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Brazil.
Journal of Intellectual Disabilities : JOID
|November 25, 2020
Summary
Breastfeeding initiation and maintenance are challenging for neonates with Down syndrome. This review found varied breastfeeding rates, often lower than controls, with challenges linked to Down syndrome-specific issues, maternal factors, and healthcare.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- Neonates with Down syndrome often face significant breastfeeding difficulties.
- Existing literature highlights challenges in initiating and sustaining breastfeeding in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the literature on breastfeeding frequency in neonates with Down syndrome.
- To identify the primary reasons for not breastfeeding or discontinuing breastfeeding in this group.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review utilizing databases: MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane Library, Scopus, Embase, and CINAHL.
- Inclusion of sixteen studies encompassing a total of 2022 children with Down syndrome.
Main Results:
- Exclusive breastfeeding rates ranged from 31.6% to 55.4%.
- Breastfeeding from birth was reported in 48%-92.5% of cases.
- Some studies indicated that up to 50% of infants with Down syndrome were never breastfed, with rates generally lower than controls.
Conclusions:
- Breastfeeding rates in infants with Down syndrome are variable and often suboptimal.
- Reasons for cessation include Down syndrome-specific challenges, maternal factors, and healthcare system issues.
- Further research and targeted support are needed to improve breastfeeding outcomes for neonates with Down syndrome.
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