LLLI Center for Breastfeeding Information

Journal Abstract of the Month for December 2002

"Home versus hospital breastfeeding support for newborns: A randomized controlled trial" by Patricia McKeever, Bonnie Stevens, Karen-Lee Miller, Jo Watson MacDonell, Sharyn Gibbins, Denise Guerriere, Michael S. Dunn & Peter C. Coyte. Birth December 2002;29(4):258

Methods of providing the most effective support for breastfeeding mothers was studied in this research project which took place in the University of Toronto, in Canada. 148 mother-newborn pairs were randomized to standard care as to the length of time the mothers were in the hospital post-birth with the standard breastfeeding support, compared to mothers and babies who were discharged early and who were provided with postpartum breastfeeding support in the home.

In-home breastfeeding suppport was found to facilitate exclusive breastfeeding in the mother/baby dyads who were randomized to the early discharge group. In-home support by certified lactation consultants result in positive breastfeeding outcomes for mothers of term newborns. With further research, there could be implications for health care providers as they seek to effectively promote breastfeeding among newly delivered mothers.

This article will be categorized using the following keywords: Promotion, Hospital Protocols, Support Groups, Management, Early Discharge, Canada, LCs.