Feasibility, acceptability and preliminary effects of speech-language therapy in breastfeeding support: A mixed...

Breastfeeding is the optimal method of infant feeding, particularly during the first 6 months after birth, and ideally continuing until the child is at least 2 years old. Speech-language therapists (SLTs) can improve the quality of care in this area, especially in vulnerable populations.

This pilot study aimed to assess the feasibility, acceptability and effectiveness of speech-language therapy to support breastfeeding among migrant women in Portugal. It evaluates breastfeeding outcomes, maternal self-efficacy and quality of life post-intervention, and explores the role of SLTs in this context.

A total of 18 migrant women were recruited between September 2023 and September 2024. The speech-language therapy intervention included ante- and postnatal breastfeeding support, evaluated using pre- and post-workshop questionnaires assessing breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices. Postpartum follow-up was conducted at 1, 3 and 6 months, during which time the neonatal oral-motor assessment scale (NOMAS), breastfeeding self-efficacy scale (BSES) and maternal postpartum quality of life questionnaire (MPQLQ) were administered. Feasibility outcomes such as recruitment, retention, adherence and acceptability were also assessed, and semi-structured interviews were completed.

The findings indicated high feasibility, with strong recruitment and retention rates. Breastfeeding self-efficacy significantly improved, with scores rising from 55.6 (SD = 9.8) pre-intervention to 67.2 (SD = 8.3) at 6 months postpartum (t(15) = 5.89, p < 0.001). Maternal quality of life increased from 62.3 (SD = 5.2) at 1 month to 72.1 (SD = 4.6) at 6 months (t(15) = 6.23, p < 0.001). A 100% breastfeeding rate was achieved at 6 months postpartum. Qualitative data revealed that the participants valued comprehensive breastfeeding support and SLT involvement.

This study demonstrated that speech-language therapy interventions are feasible and effective in improving breastfeeding outcomes among migrant women, warranting further investigation through larger trials.

What is already known on the subject While breastfeeding support is often emphasized, there is a gap in understanding how tailored interventions can benefit migrant women facing breastfeeding challenges. What this paper adds to the existing knowledge The findings highlight the role of SLTs in enhancing breastfeeding outcomes, suggesting that tailored support can significantly impact maternal and infant well-being. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work? Speech-language therapy interventions can effectively support breastfeeding, especially in populations with unique challenges such as migrant women.