Low Latch Score: A Red Flag Sign and an Educational Tool for Intervention Among Mothers to Promote Exclusive Breastfeeding

Abstract

Introduction LATCH score is used by the health-care professionals (HCPs) to identify mothers who require assistance in breastfeeding. We conducted this study to assess if the low LATCH score can be an indicator to alert the HCPs for intervention to achieve exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) till 6 weeks and also used as an educational tool for mothers to understand and rectify their technique of breastfeeding. Methods In this prospective cohort study, LATCH score was assessed after delivery within 24 h, at 48 h, and at discharge. After first assessment, mothers were informed and counselled about LATCH scoring tool and their confidence was assessed using Likert scale at each time point. Follow-up was done at 6 weeks either by person at the time of immunization or through telephone to know the status of EBF and weight of the infant. Results A total of 251 mothers and neonates were enrolled. Prevalence of EBF was found to be 76% at 6 weeks. Overall, the median LATCH Score at 24 h was found to be 6 (2,10) and at 48 h was 7 (3,10) whereas the median LATCH score at 48 h for those delivered vaginally was 7 (4,10) and those delivered by LSCS was 6.5 (3,9) ( P < .0001). LATCH score of ≥6 at 48 h had sensitivity and specificity of 80% (confidence interval [CI] 68%, 89%) and 69% (CI 62%, 76%) respectively with area under the curve 0.81 (CI 0.74, 0.87) to predict EBF at 6 weeks. We found statistically significant change in mother’s confidence level compared from 24 h to 48 h with better LATCH score and EBF by 6 weeks after informing them about LATCH score. Conclusion A LATCH score of <6 at 48 h can be a significant indicator (Red Flag sign) to intervene and promote exclusive breastfeeding. LATCH scoring itself may be used as educational tool to improve the technique of breastfeeding and thus promote EBF.