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Evaluating antenatal breastmilk expression outcomes: a scoping review
Imane Foudil-Bey1,2, Malia S Q Murphy1, Sandra Dunn1
1OMNI Research Group, Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada.
International Breastfeeding Journal
|March 13, 2021
Summary
Antenatal breastmilk expression (aBME) is increasingly studied for maternal and newborn benefits, especially for those with diabetes. However, current evidence is limited and of low quality, highlighting the need for more research.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Lactation Science
Background:
- Antenatal breastmilk expression (aBME) is recommended by some healthcare providers to improve lactation and newborn outcomes.
- Women with diabetes face unique breastfeeding challenges, making aBME a potential intervention.
- Limited evidence exists regarding the harms and benefits of aBME.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a scoping review of the literature on maternal and newborn outcomes associated with aBME.
- To map existing research on the practice and experiences of aBME.
- To identify gaps in the evidence base for aBME.
Main Methods:
- Searched multiple databases (Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane, EThOS, OpenGrey, Clinicaltrials.gov) from inception to January 2020.
- Included English studies reporting on maternal/newborn outcomes and women's experiences with aBME.
- Screened titles, abstracts, and full texts; conducted critical appraisal and data extraction.
Main Results:
- 20 studies met inclusion criteria from 659 screened; 55% published after 2015.
- 50% of studies focused on high-risk populations, including those with diabetes.
- Common outcomes: breastfeeding status, delivery mode, newborn blood glucose, lactation establishment. Maternal experiences included challenges, confidence, and physical symptoms.
- Critical appraisal indicated limited high-quality evidence on aBME.
Conclusions:
- There is growing interest in the safety, efficacy, and acceptability of aBME.
- Existing studies are heterogeneous in research questions, outcomes, and methodology.
- Recommendations are provided to inform future research on aBME.
