Breastfeeding and Its Influence on Psychomotor Development: An Investigation Based on the LAyDI Study (PAPenRed)
Silvia Martín-Ramos1, Begoña Domínguez-Aurrecoechea2, Marta Carballal-Mariño3
1Neonatology Department, Hospital Río Hortega, 47012 Valladolid, Spain.
Nutrients
|April 28, 2025
Summary
Breastfeeding (BF) showed no major impact on psychomotor development in the first two years of life. Other factors significantly influence early childhood development beyond feeding type.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Developmental Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Breastfeeding (BF) is widely promoted for infant health benefits.
- Understanding its specific impact on early psychomotor development is crucial for evidence-based guidance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the relationship between breastfeeding and psychomotor development in children during their first two years of life.
Main Methods:
- A prospective longitudinal study followed 1946 Spanish infants from birth to 24 months.
- Psychomotor development was assessed using the Haizea-Llevant development chart at multiple visits.
- Infants were categorized based on breastfeeding status at 6 months and duration.
Main Results:
- At 24 months, some milestones (e.g., "scribbles spontaneously", "descends stair") showed significant differences in children breastfed at 6 months.
- Longer breastfeeding duration correlated with achieving milestones like "eats with a spoon" earlier.
- However, overall major differences in psychomotor development were not observed based on feeding type in the first two years.
Conclusions:
- Breastfeeding does not appear to be the sole determinant of psychomotor development in the first two years.
- Multiple factors influence a child's psychomotor development, with breastfeeding being one among many.
- Differences related to feeding may become more pronounced after the age of two.
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