Duration of breastfeeding in preterm infants followed at a secondary referral service

Brunnella Alcantara Chagas De Freitas,Luciana Moreira Lima,Carla Fernanda Lisboa Valente Carlos,Silvia Eloiza Priore,Sylvia Do Carmo Castro Franceschini

doi:10.1016/j.rppede.2016.02.010

Brunnella Alcantara Chagas De Freitas, Luciana Moreira Lima + Show 3 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rppede.2016.02.010

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Abstract

ObjectiveIdentify and analyze variables associated with shorter duration of breastfeeding in preterm infants. MethodsRetrospective cohort of premature infants followed up at secondary referral service in the period of 2010–2015. Inclusion: first appointment in the first month of corrected age and have undergone three or more consultations. Exclusion: diseases that impaired oral feeding. Outcome: duration of breastfeeding. A total of 103 preterm infants were evaluated, accounting for 28.8% of the preterm infants born in the municipality in that period, with a power of study of 80%. Descriptive analysis, t-test, chi-square test, Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression were used. p-values <0.05 were considered significant. ResultsThe median duration of breastfeeding among preterm infants was 5.0 months. The risk of breastfeeding discontinuation among preterm infants with gestational age <32 weeks was 2.6-fold higher than for those born at 32 weeks or more and the risk of breastfeeding interruption in preterm infants who were receiving breastfeeding supplementation in the first outpatient visit was 3-fold higher when compared to those who were exclusively breastfed in the first consultation. ConclusionsThe median duration of breastfeeding in preterm infants was below the recommended one and discontinuation was associated with gestational <32 weeks and the fact that the infant was no longer receiving exclusive breastfeeding in the first outpatient visit. When these two variables were associated, their negative effect on the median duration of breastfeeding was potentiated.

Highlights

The increase in preterm infants’ survival rate has been observed in developed and developing countries
The median duration of breastfeeding among the assessed preterm infants was five months, which is below the recommended duration.[5]
Factors related to shorter breastfeeding duration were gestational age

Summary

Introduction

The increase in preterm infants’ survival rate has been observed in developed and developing countries These infants are vulnerable to conditions leading to increased morbidity and mortality and require specialized follow-up.[1]. Decreased infant mortality and better neurodevelopment are proven benefits associated with breastfeeding.[2,3] Breast milk is recommended as ideal for feeding preterm infants and the use of formula is only indicated when breastfeeding is impossible.[1,4,5] preterm mothers have lower success rates in breastfeeding, which reinforces the need to adopt practices aimed to promote breastfeeding at the different levels of health care.1,5---7. Decreased infant mortality and better neurodevelopment are proven benefits associated with breastfeeding.[2,3] Breast milk is recommended as ideal for feeding preterm infants and the use of formula is only indicated when breastfeeding is impossible.[1,4,5] preterm mothers have lower success rates in breastfeeding, which reinforces the need to adopt practices aimed to promote breastfeeding at the different levels of health care.1,5---7 In this context, the work developed at Centro Integrado Viva Vida de Referência Secundária Vicosa, established in 2010 in the state of Minas Gerais, is highlighted; the service consists of an interdisciplinary team and has become a reference for the health care of preterm infants in the city

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