A Review of Quantitative Instruments for Understanding Breastfeeding Dynamics

Breastfeeding, as a unique behavior of the postpartum period and an ideal source of nourishment, is profoundly impacted by the physiology and behavior of both mothers and infants. For more than three-quarters of a century, there has been an ongoing advancement of instruments that permit insight into the complex process of latching during breastfeeding, which includes coordinating sucking, swallowing, and breathing. Despite the available methodologies for understanding latching dynamics, there continues to be a large void in the understanding of infant latching and feeding. The causes for many breastfeeding difficulties remain unclear, and until a clearer understanding of the mechanics involved is achieved, the struggle will continue in the attempts to aid infants and mothers who struggle to breastfeed. In this review, the history of development for the most prominent tools employed to analyze breastfeeding dynamics is presented. Additionally, the importance of the most advanced instruments and systems used to understand latching dynamics is highlighted and how medical practitioners utilize them is reported. Finally, a controversial argument amongst pediatric otolaryngolo gists concerning breastfeeding difficulties is reviewed and the urgent need for quantification of latching dynamics in conjunction with milk removal rate through prospective controlled studies is discussed.