Baby Boxes and Breastfeeding: A Study of the Impact of Safe Sleeping Environments on Infant Feeding Method [26H

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The benefits of breastfeeding for both a newborn and mother are well established. Parents often co-sleep with their children for ease of breastfeeding. However, co-sleeping is associated with sleep-related deaths. To alleviate this burden, Temple University Hospital (TUH) provided all newly delivered mothers with a Baby Box, a box with a firm mattress, for a safe sleeping environment. The purpose of this project was to study the impact of a safe sleeping environment on breastfeeding rates. METHODS: This is a retrospective study of patients between May 2016 and May 2018 who delivered at TUH and were provided a Baby Box prior to hospital discharge. A phone survey was performed after discharge. Categorical variables were analyzed using Pearson chi-squared test. This study on review by the TUH IRB was given exempt status. RESULTS: Of 4,394 eligible women, 26% reported exclusive breastfeeding of their infant. Approximately 26% of those exclusively breastfeeding reported using the Baby Box for infant sleep, and 54% reported that breastfeeding was easier while using the Baby Box. Approximately 32% of those who exclusively breastfed reported co-sleeping with their infant. There was no statistically significant difference between feeding method and use of the Baby Box. CONCLUSION: With the use of the baby box, the number of participants exclusively breastfeeding was low. Of those who exclusively breastfeed, there was a high rate of co-sleeping, despite being provided with a safe sleeping environment. This study demonstrates the need for continued efforts to promote breastfeeding and safe sleeping in this patient population.