359 Effect of Intrapartum Oxytocin Administration on First Latch and Breastfeeding Behaviour

Abstract

Background and aims: The effect of the infusion of synthetic oxytocin on newborn behaviour has received little attention although there is a growing body of evidence that suggests it can affect the behaviour of non human mammals both early and in the long term. The impact of exogenous oxytocin on spontaneous breastfeeding has not been thoroughly investigated. The objective of the study is to evaluate the effect of oxytocin used during induced labour on spontaneous first breastfeeding.Methods: Observational descriptive study approved by Local Ethical Committee. 24 women with their first term pregnancies were studied. All had singleton, healthy pregnancies and epidural analgesia was used. Newborns were vaginal delivered and immediately placed in skin-to-skin contact (SSC) with the mother. Patients were excluded if 5 min Apgar was < 9 or no immediately SSC was applied (n=2). Time in minutes between delivery and spontaneous breastfeeding was measured.Results: Mean GA and birthweight was 39.5±1.3w and 3326.1±323.6g respectively. Mean oxytocin dose was 2326.9±1771.9 mUI. Median time to achieve first breastfeed was 56.8 ± 38m. Six newborns (27.2%) get first breastfeed after 1h of SSC. No correlation was found between the amount of oxytocin infused during labour and time of first breastfeed (r= -0.28; p=0.19). No association was found between amount of oxytocin and delayed first breastfeeding.Conclusions: Total dose of oxytocin infused during labour may have no influence on spontaneous first breastfeeding.