Infant Feeding Method Research Articles

Influence of breastfeeding on the ontogenesis of mucosal immunity in children

The role of breastfeeding in the development of the cellular immune system, antimicrobial strategies of neutrophils, and local cytokine levels was evaluated in a single-center, prospective, open-label, uncontrolled study of healthy infants who were either naturally or artificially breastfed. The main group included practically healthy children who were exclusively breastfed for the first year of life. Thirty-six children were examined during the first stage and 25 from this group during the second stage. The comparison group included children who received an adapted cow’s milk formula during the first half-year of their lives and a different formula during the second half-year. Thirty-one children were examined during stage one and 27 from this group were examined during stage two. A comprehensive study of mucosal immunity was conducted, assessing the cytokine profile and cellular components using the method of smear prints from the nasal mucosa. The results showed that the nature of feeding during the first year of life influences the formation of mucosal immunity and programming the postnatal development of the child’s immunological reactivity. In the absence of the immunomodulatory effects of breast milk, there is an imbalance in the cytokine profile, with a physiological deviation of the immune response linked to the predominance of Th2 profiles. In contrast, breastfeeding promotes the optimal cellular composition of the upper respiratory mucosa and a cytomorphological neutrophil profile with minimal destructive changes. Breastfeeding programs the optimal functional profile of neutrophils, including the level of receptor activity, intracellular biocidal activity, cytotoxicity, ability to complete phagocytosis. This natural infant feeding method has a long-term protective effect, preventing neutrophil destruction under the influence of environmental factors and respiratory viral agents, and ensuring optimal mucosal immunity development in the respiratory tract.

HPA Axis Dysregulation and Postpartum Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in Breastfeeding vs Bottle-feeding Parents

ObjectiveHypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation has been implicated in pathogenesis of perinatal mood disorders. Further, HPA axis response is known to be blunted during breastfeeding. We hypothesized that 1) postpartum depression/anxiety symptoms would be associated with HPA axis dysregulation, indexed by loss of expected adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-cortisol (CRT) coupling, and 2) this association would vary by method of infant feeding. MethodsParticipants (N=222) intending to breastfeed were recruited in their 3rd trimester of pregnancy. During a lab visit at 2 months postpartum, depression and anxiety symptoms were assessed (Beck Depression Inventory score ≥14 and/or Speilberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory score ≥40). Participants then breast or bottle-fed their infants as they would at home. After a 10-minute rest, participants completed the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST), a standardized stressor involving speech and math tasks. Blood ACTH and CRT were measured 10minutes after feeding, during each task, and at 10, 20, and 30minutes of recovery. Multilevel models evaluated whether coupling of ACTH at time j with CRT at time j+1 differed between those with and without depression/anxiety symptoms, and whether differences varied by feeding method. ResultsOf 205 participants who completed the TSST, 44 had depression/anxiety symptoms at 2-months postpartum. Depression/anxiety symptoms were associated with reduced ACTH-CRT coupling (adjusted beta: -0.03; p-value: 0.03). Among those who breastfed, those with depression/anxiety showed greater blunting of ACTH-CRT coupling than those without (adjusted beta: -0.04; p-value: 0.02), while those who bottle fed had similar coupling patterns regardless of depression/anxiety symptoms (adjusted beta: -0.01; p-value: 0.87). ConclusionHPA axis response was blunted in those with postpartum depression/anxiety symptoms, and blunting varied by method of infant feeding. Findings support HPA axis dysregulation in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Future research should explore how method of infant feeding influences the relationship between perinatal mood disorders and HPA axis dysregulation. Elucidating the mechanistic pathways underlying perinatal mood disorders can aid in the development of better diagnostic and treatment strategies.

Father support breastfeeding self-efficacy positively affects exclusive breastfeeding at 6 weeks postpartum and its influencing factors in Southeast China: a multi-centre, cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe exclusive breastfeeding condition in China is not optimism now. Maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy stands as a pivotal factor influencing exclusive breastfeeding. Interestingly, studies have suggested that father support breastfeeding self-efficacy is a pivotal mediator in infant breastfeeding. Thus, the current research aimed to investigate the association between father support breastfeeding self-efficacy and exclusive breastfeeding at six weeks postpartum, and the influencing factors of father support breastfeeding self-efficacy.MethodsThis research was structured as a multi-centre cross-sectional study, involving 328 fathers, whose partners were six weeks postpartum, and recruited from two public hospitals in Southeast China. Self-designed demographic questionnaires, namely, Father Support Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form, Breastfeeding Knowledge Questionnaire, Positive Affect Scale and the 14-item Fatigue Scale, were applied. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, logistic regression univariate analysis and multiple linear regression were used to analyse data.ResultsResults indicate a significant difference between the infant feeding methods at six weeks postpartum and fathers with different levels of support breastfeeding self-efficacy (p < 0.05). Particularly, father support breastfeeding self-efficacy positively affected exclusive breastfeeding at six weeks postpartum after adjusting all the demographic characteristics of fathers (OR: 2.407; 95% CI: 1.017–4.121). Moreover, results show that the significant influencing factors of father support breastfeeding self-efficacy include breastfeeding knowledge, fatigue, positive affect, successfully experienced helping mothers to breastfeed, spousal relationships and companionship time.ConclusionsHigh-level father support breastfeeding self-efficacy effectively increased exclusive breastfeeding rate at six weeks postpartum. To enhance the exclusive breastfeeding rate, nurses or midwives can endeavour to design educational programmes or take supportive interventions customised for fathers, such as enhancing their breastfeeding knowledge education, reducing fatigue and mobilising positive emotions, thereby bolstering paternal self-efficacy in breastfeeding.

Knowledge, attitudes and support practices related to breastfeeding promotion of doctors and nurses in Motheo district, Free State province, South Africa

Background: Breastfeeding is widely acknowledged as the optimal method of infant feeding. However, the percentage of South African mothers who exclusively breastfeed remains alarmingly low. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are pivotal in promoting breastfeeding; however, a deficiency in their knowledge, negative attitudes, and unfavourable practices can impede the promotion and support of breastfeeding. Aim: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and support practices related to breastfeeding promotion of HCWs in the Motheo district, Free State province, compared with the 2016 WHO Guideline updates on HIV and infant feeding and 2018 Mother-Baby Friendly initiative guidelines. Methods: A quantitative analytical cross-sectional study involving paediatricians, obstetricians, general practitioners (GPs), and midwives was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire. Results: Over half of the HCWs (59%) were able to define exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), with a significant majority of GPs (76.1%) and midwives (78.6%) recommending EBF up to six months, compared with only 10% of paediatricians and 25% of obstetricians (p < 0.001). Some 11.1% of the total group of HCWs reported that breastfeeding is contraindicated for HIV-infected mothers, while 15.4% were unsure of the recommendation for breastfeeding among HIV-infected mothers. A higher proportion of midwives, compared with other HCWs, felt highly confident in providing breastfeeding advice (p < 0.001). Additionally, more than half (56%) of HCWs had not completed the 20-hour WHO Lactation Management Training, and 55% believed their prior breastfeeding training was not sufficient to support and educate breastfeeding mothers. Conclusion: Regular breastfeeding training of HCWs on the latest breastfeeding guidelines is necessary to equip HCWs with the knowledge and competence to successfully promote, protect, and support breastfeeding.

Postnatal Cardiometabolic Health After Metformin Use in Gestational Diabetes: A Secondary Analysis of the EMERGE Trial.

Women with GDM display adverse lifetime cardio-metabolic health. We examined whether early metformin in GDM could impact cardio-metabolic risk factors postpartum. EMERGE, a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial randomized pregnancies 1:1 to placebo or metformin at GDM diagnosis and followed participants from randomization until 12±4 weeks postpartum. In total 478 pregnancies were available for postpartum maternal assessment, 237 and 241 assigned to metformin and placebo respectively. Weight (kg), body mass index (BMI) (kg/m2), waist circumference (cm) and blood pressure (mmHg) were measured, infant feeding method documented and bloods drawn for a 75 gram oral glucose tolerance test, fasting insulin, C peptide and lipid analysis. Despite similar weight and BMI at trial randomization, participants receiving metformin had significantly lower weight (79.5±15.9 vs 82.6±16.9kg; p=0.04) and BMI (29.3(5.6) vs 30.5(5.4); p=0.018) at the postpartum visit. However no difference in weight change from randomisation to 12 weeks postpartum was observed between metformin and placebo groups. Overall 29% (n=139) of the cohort met criteria for prediabetes or diabetes, with no positive impact with metformin. There were also no differences in measurements of insulin resistance, blood pressure or lipids between groups. Early metformin use in GDM did not impact important cardio-metabolic parameters in the early postpartum period despite significant benefits in weight gain and insulin use in pregnancy.

Initial Feeding Method, WIC-Provided Lactation Support, and Breastfeeding Duration at an Urban Pediatric Primary Care Practice.

Breastfeeding (BF) is associated with improved maternal and infant health outcomes. However, underserved populations have limited access to lactation support. Our urban pediatric primary care practice partnered with WIC to integrate a BF peer counselor (BFPC) into newborn visits. To study the association of BF duration with (1) BFPC integration, (2) initial infant feeding methods (IFM). This is a retrospective cohort study of patients receiving BFPC support matched with those that did not based on race, ethnicity, and insurance. IFM were compared using chi-square. BF duration was compared using a t-test. These variables were compared across IFM using ANOVA. A cohort of 111 infant-mother dyads received BFPC support and 222 dyads did not (7/09/2019-4/25/2022). There was no significant difference in feeding methods between these groups. Compared to infants whose IFM was exclusive BF, fewer infants who initially used formula or both formula and breastmilk were exclusively BF at 2-month (55.8%, 8.2%, 10.9%), 4-month (54.8%, 6.3%, 14.5%), and 6-month visits (54.8%, 4.3%, 14.1%) (p < 0.001). There was a significant association between IFM and duration of any and exclusive BF (Formula only: 1week; BF and Formula: 3weeks; Exclusive BF: 14weeks; p < 0.001). A significant association was found between IFM and duration of BF. Early formula introduction was negatively associated with BF duration. The prenatal period may therefore be optimal for initiating BF support. Although there was no association between BFPC and BF duration, additional benefits of this intervention should be explored.

Exclusive Breastfeeding Practice and Associated Factors among Mothers having Infants (Aged 0-6 Months) in the Pastoral Community of Sawena District, Bale Zone Oromia, Ethiopia, 2023

Background: Breastfeeding is the recommended feeding method for infants due to its ease, health benefits, and cost-effectiveness. However, there is limited understanding of Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF) in pastoral communities, such as the Sawena district in Ethiopia. Objective: To assess the prevalence and factors associated with EBF among mothers with infants (aged 0-6 months) in pastoral communities in Southeast Ethiopia. Method: A community-based cross-sectional study design with a convergent mixed-method approach was employed from March 01 to April 2023 G.C and involved 631 women selected through random sampling. Face-to-face interviews were conducted, and the data were analyzed using statistical software. Variables with a p &lt; 0.25 in the analysis were included in the logistic regression model. Results: Out of 631 eligible mothers, 625 participated in the study, resulting in 53.8% (95% CI; 49.8%-57.4%). prevalence of EBF in the study area. Factors significantly associated with EBF included household food security [AOR = 1.6, 95% CI (1.1-2.2)], ANC follow-up during pregnancy, [AOR = 5.3, 95% CI (2.4-11.9)], counselling about EBF during ANC visits [AOR = 5; 95% CI (2.1-11.7)], number of children [AOR = 1.6, 95% CI (1.1-2.3)] and attitudes toward EBF [AOR = 1.8; 95% CI (1.4-2.6)]. The qualitative findings revealed reasons for not practicing EBF, such as concerns about insufficient breast milk, concerns about the baby becoming thirsty, refusing solid foods later, or being negatively affected. Conclusion: The prevalence of EBF in the Sawena district was lower than recommended. The influential factors include household food security, ANC follow-up, counselling during ANC, number of children, and attitudes toward EBF.

The Influence of Prenatal Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy on Breastfeeding Behavior of Taiwanese Pregnant Women.

The benefits of breastfeeding for mothers and infants are well known. However, in Taiwan, the average breastfeeding rate remains below the World Health Organization recommendations. Breastfeeding self-efficacy is a known predictor of breastfeeding. To determine: (1) the relationship of sociodemographic factors to prenatal breastfeeding self-efficacy, and (2) the relationship of sociodemographic factors and prenatal breastfeeding self-efficacy to breastfeeding behavior at 8 weeks postpartum among women living in Taiwan. This was a prospective cohort study of 206 pregnant women collected in an outpatient clinic located in Taiwan. The validated Chinese version of the Prenatal Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale (PBSES) was used to measure self-efficacy for breastfeeding during pregnancy. At 8 weeks postpartum, participants were contacted by telephone to obtain information regarding infant feeding method and duration. The mean age of the pregnant women was 32 years, and the mean prenatal breastfeeding self-efficacy score was 78.6 (SD = 10.6). Scores differed across levels of maternal education, previous breastfeeding experience, and support systems. Prenatal breastfeeding self-efficacy scores were highest among participants reporting spouse support versus other types of support. Maternal age and prenatal breastfeeding self-efficacy were predictive of breastfeeding duration. A 1-year increase in maternal age was associated with a 6% lower likelihood of breastfeeding for at least 2 months postpartum, and a 1-point increase in the prenatal breastfeeding self-efficacy score was associated with a 14% increase in the likelihood of breastfeeding for at least 2 months postpartum. Prenatal breastfeeding self-efficacy may help predict breastfeeding continuation among Taiwanese women in the first 2 months postpartum.

Maternal self-esteem and self-efficacy as factors affecting maternal long-term breastfeeding: Α comprehensive review of the literature

Background: Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the optimal feeding method for infants, providing numerous health benefits, both for the infant and the mother. Numerous factors have been noted to influence its success, and currently, maternal self-esteem and more particularly self-efficacy, have been recognized as important determinants as well. To this end, it is essential to take into account the role of maternal self-esteem in achieving and sustaining breastfeeding. Methods: This review of the current medical literature aims to investigate the correlation between maternal self-efficacy and breastfeeding duration. A total of 23 articles were selected for comprehensive review, following an online search for relevant literature dating from 2009 onward. All articles were analyzed, identifying key themes, approaches, and conclusions regarding breastfeeding behaviors and maternal self-efficacy. Results: The findings consistently demonstrated that higher levels of maternal self-efficacy were associated with better breastfeeding outcomes, including longer duration of exclusive breastfeeding. Interventions targeting self-efficacy, such as educational programs and counseling, were found to be effective in enhancing breastfeeding self-confidence and promoting prolonged breastfeeding. However, it was observed that maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy tends to decline over time, highlighting the need for continuous support and interventions. Conclusions: Maternal self-esteem, particularly self-efficacy, is vital in achieving long-term breastfeeding goals. Interventions and support programs that enhance maternal self-efficacy have shown promise in improving breastfeeding outcomes. Ongoing support, counseling, and access to breastfeeding resources are crucial for maintaining and improving self-efficacy levels throughout the breastfeeding journey. Healthcare professionals and policymakers should consider incorporating strategies to enhance maternal self-esteem into breastfeeding support initiatives for better breastfeeding outcomes. Further research is required to explore cultural and social influences on maternal self-esteem and develop tailored interventions for diverse populations

Exercise perspective: Benefits and mechanisms of gut microbiota on the body.

Gut microbiota refers to the vast and diverse community of microorganisms residing in the intestines. Factors such as genetics, environmental influences (e.g., exercise, diet), and early life experiences (e.g., infant feeding methods) can all affect the ecological balance of gut microbiota within the body. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is associated with extra-intestinal diseases such as Parkinson's syndrome, osteoporosis, and autoimmune diseases, suggesting that disturbances in gut microbiota may be one of the causes of these diseases. Exercise benefits various diseases, with gut microbiota playing a role in regulating the nervous, musculoskeletal, and immune systems. Gut microbiota can impact the body's health status through the gut-brain axis, gut-muscle axis, and immune pathways. Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise can increase the quantity of gut microbiota and change microbial abundance, although short-term exercise does not significantly affect the alpha diversity of the microbiota. Resistance exercise also does not have a significant regulatory effect on gut microbiota.

Alimentation infantile et changements climatiques: une opportunité prometteuse.

The method of infant feeding has consequences for the production of greenhouse gases (GHG) as well as for the risks to infants posed by climate change. Breastfeeding can reduce the carbon footprint associated with the use of commercial infant formula by nearly 50% while reducing its water footprint and waste. It is also an excellent way of coping with emergencies associated with climate change, such as water shortages, since breastfed children are better protected than those fed with formula. To ensure that the protection offered by breastfeeding can be realized, we present elements that can help decision-makers seize a promising opportunity: improve infant feeding support for women and families.

Breastfeeding and fatty liver - is there any association?

The campaign to promote the natural feeding of infants, at least for the first six months of life, conducted over recent years has deep justification from a medical point of view. Numerous gynecological and pediatric societies around the world recommend breastfeeding as the most appropriate way of feeding infants. It has been proven that the benefits of this type of nutrition go beyond nutritional aspects, proper growth and development. The list of long-term metabolic benefits, which include reducing the incidence of obesity, allergies, infections and diabetes, is constantly growing. It has been shown that the method of feeding infants using various mechanisms may influence the tendency of the liver to accumulate fatty compounds and develop fatty liver disease with its metabolic consequences leading to liver failure, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. This is an important discovery due to the growing obesity epidemic in adults and children. Metabolic dysfunction - associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has become the most common cause of chronic liver disease, affecting 25% of the global population. The results of studies conducted in recent years have shown the protective effect of breastfeeding on the risk of developing MAFLD later in life in both children and breastfeeding women. New scientific reports provide the basis for qualifying breastfeeding as a modifiable risk factor for MAFLD.

Variation in maternal lactation practices associated with changes in diurnal maternal inflammation

While the importance of human milk in shaping infant immune function is well established, the impact of at-the-nipple (ATN) breastfeeding on maternal immune status has been understudied. Since lactation evolved to support infant survival and boost maternal fitness, we predict that ATN breastfeeding will confer benefits on maternal immune function. We measure the absolute and relative frequency of different infant feeding methods (ATN breastfeeding, pumping, donated milk, other supplementation) used by postpartum women in Seattle, WA (USA). We implement Bayesian modeling to estimate the effects of ATN breastfeeding on diurnal change in secretion rate of “pro-inflammatory” salivary cytokines and C-reactive protein (CRP). Our results show that most mothers in our sample used a variety of infant feeding methods, with pumping as the most common alternative to ATN breastfeeding. We find that ATN breastfeeding is associated with non-linear effects on diurnal IL-8 and CRP. Furthermore, we find that women who report zero versus ubiquitous ATN breastfeeding exhibit opposing diurnal patterns in CRP secretion rate. This study provides evidence that variation in maternal lactation practices corresponds to differences in maternal immune responses, highlighting how measuring lactation as a continuous variable can further enhance understanding of postpartum maternal physiology.

Breastfeeding Intentions among Pregnant Women Enrolled in a Healthy Start Program in Arkansas.

Exclusive breastfeeding is recognized as the optimal source of nutrition for infants. Although exclusive breastfeeding rates have increased overall in the United States, substantial inequities exist in breastfeeding among individuals of different socioeconomic statuses, races, and ethnicities. The purpose of this study was to examine characteristics associated with exclusive breastfeeding intentions among pregnant women in Arkansas enrolled in a Healthy Start program. The current study included a cross-sectional design, with a sample of 242 pregnant women in Arkansas enrolled in a Healthy Start program. The majority of the participants (56.6%) indicated their infant feeding intentions included a combination of breastfeeding and formula feeding. There were substantial differences in breastfeeding intentions among women of different races/ethnicities, with 18.5% of Marshallese women indicating they planned to exclusively breastfeed, compared to 42.1% of White women, 47.6% of Black women, and 31.8% of Hispanic women (p < 0.001). Women over the age of 18 and with higher educational attainment were more likely to intend on exclusively breastfeeding. This is the first study to examine characteristics associated with exclusive breastfeeding intentions among pregnant women in Arkansas enrolled in a Healthy Start program. The study found that race/ethnicity and age were most strongly associated with breastfeeding intentions. These findings are critical to identifying populations for resource allocation and to developing culturally-tailored interventions to help women in Arkansas achieve their desired infant feeding methods.

The investigation of serum phenylalanine levels based on infant feeding method: a cross-sectional study of children less than two years old with phenylketonuria (PKU)

BackgroundClinical advice may suggest discontinuing breastfeeding after the diagnosis of phenylketonuria in infants as the only effective way to monitor the newborn's intake and accurate measurement of phenylalanine (Phe). This study aims to investigate the prevalence and duration of breastfeeding, as well as its effect on serum Phe levels in infants with phenylketonuria at Education and Therapy Medical Center, Be'sat Hospital, Iran.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study of 34 children under two years old diagnosed with phenylketonuria between September 2018 and December 2022. Infants were categorized as breastfed and non-breastfed (bottle-fed) based on their feeding method after diagnosis. Data on age at diagnosis, medical records, demographic information, and anthropometric indices were collected, and infants with incomplete data or mixed feeding (formula + breast milk) were excluded from the study.ResultsOf 94 infants managed in our hospital, 34 had complete medical records. Among the all patients 13 (38%) continued to be breastfed combined with phenylalanine-free amino acid-based protein substitute, while 21 (62%) were did not receive breast milk. The mean duration of breastfeeding was 2.57 ± 0.59 (1–3) months. The mean age at diagnosis was 22.6 ± 18.4 days. Phenylalanine concentrations at diagnosis were mean 10, SD 5.44; range 4–24 mg/dL [0.22–1.33 μmol/L] in the breastfed group and mean 14.3, SD 10.2; range 5–37 mg/dL [0.27–2.05 μmol/L] in the non-breastfed group.Non-breastfed infants had lower serum Phe levels than breastfed infants: mean 3.76, SD 2.10; range 1–7 mg/dL [0.05–0.38 μmol/L] and mean 4.89, SD 3.68; range 2–19 mg/dL [0.11–1.05 μmol/L], respectively, although not statistically significant [(t (34) = 118.0, P = 0.51]. Also we found no significant associations in body measurements for weight, height, and head circumference at birth and final assessment.ConclusionsIn conclusion, during treatment, there were no statistically significant associations between breastfeeding and serum Phe levels with growth in children with phenylketonuria.

Composition of Microbiota in Transient and Mature Human Milk: Significant Changes in Large for Gestational Age Group.

The composition of the human milk (HM) microbiota and, consequently, the microorganisms that are passed on to the infant through breastfeeding, can be influenced by various factors such as the mother's health and diet, gestational age, delivery mode, lactation stage, method of infant feeding, and geographical location. The aim of the Human Milk-Gest Study was to compare the microbiota of transient (postpartum 7-15 days) and mature HM (postpartum 45-90 days) of 44 mothers, and to investigate any potential changes associated with preterm birth, mode of delivery, and birth weight in relation to gestational age. The data were classified into five study groups: normal spontaneous delivery-term (NS-T) newborns, cesarean delivery-term (CS-T) newborns, preterm (PT) newborns (with a gestational age of less than 37 weeks), small for gestational age (SGA) newborns, and large for gestational age (LGA) newborns. An analysis of differential abundance was conducted using ANCOM-BC to compare the microbial genera between transient and mature HM samples as well as between other study groups. A significant difference was detected between HM samples at different sampling times and between the study groups (p < 0.01). In transient HM samples, Ralstonia, Burkholderiaceae_uc, and Pelomonas were significantly dominant in the LGA group compared to the NS-T, CS-T, PT, and SGA groups. In mature HM samples, Burkholderiaceae_uc, Ralstonia, Pelomonas, and Klebsiella were significantly dominant in the LGA group compared to the NS-T, CS-T, and PT groups, while Ralstonia, Burkholderiaceae_uc, and Pelomonas were significantly dominant in the LGA group compared to the SGA group. Differences were also detected between the transient and mature HM samples in the CS-T, PT, SGA, and LGA groups, but no differences occurred in the NS-T groups. In conclusion, we showed that Ralstonia, Burkholderiaceae_uc, and Pelomonas were significantly dominant in the LGA group in transient HM and continued in mature HM. The body mass index (BMI) of the mothers in the LGA group was not >30 at conception, however, the maternal BMI at birth and maternal weight gain during pregnancy were higher than in the other groups. The nutritional composition of HM is specifically designed to meet infant nutritional requirements during early life. Evaluating the effects of HM microbiota on infant microbiota composition and short- and long-term health effects in larger studies would be useful.

Estimated energy and nutrient intake in complementary feeding methods in Brazilian infants: randomized clinical trial

Inadequate nutrient intake during complementary feeding (CF) can affect healthy infant growth and development. A randomized clinical trial was conducted to examine the energy and nutrient intake in Brazilian children randomly assigned to three distinct CF methods. Mother-infant pairs participated in the study, with mothers receiving interventions in one of three CF approaches: (A) strict Parent-Led Weaning (PLW); (B) strict Baby-Led Introduction to Solids (BLISS); and (C) a mixed method. Assessments were made at 5.5 months, nine months, and 12 months of the child's age. Food consumption was measured through 24-h dietary recalls at nine and 12 months, with intake estimates calculated using the Brazilian Food Composition Table. Means or medians of energy and nutrients were compared between groups using ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc test or the Kruskal–Wallis test. A total of 115 infants were evaluated at nine months, and 102 at 12 months. Children in the PLW, BLISS, and mixed method groups exhibited comparable dietary intakes of energy, macronutrients, and micronutrients at both nine and 12 months. Infants following PLW, BLISS, and mixed methods demonstrated similar levels of energy and nutrient intake, underscoring the effectiveness of these strategies in ensuring comparable nutrient intake during the critical phase of CF.Trial registration The trial was registered in the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC) with identifier [RBR-229scm U1111-1226-9516], [https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-229scm]. The full data of the first registration was on 24/09/2019.

Breastfeeding vs. Formula Feeding and Maternal Sexuality among Polish Women: A Preliminary Report.

Although postpartum sexual problems are common, there is a poor understanding of the underlying influencing factors and the impact of the infant feeding method on the mother's sexual life. A cross-sectional control study was conducted with a group of 253 women during their postpartum period. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different infant feeding methods on female sexual life after childbirth. The study followed the STROBE guidelines for cross-sectional control analysis. The study design included a questionnaire characterizing sociodemographic, obstetric and breastfeeding variables and the PL-FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index). The authors collected the data in compliance with the CAWI (Computer-Assisted Web Interview) research methodology-an interview conducted via an Internet channel. Each respondent received and completed the survey provided to them via the same online link. This study included women in the postpartum period: 170 breastfeeding women (study group) and 83 formula-feeding women (control group). There were statistically significant difference between the groups that practiced different types of breastfeeding. Out of all the PL-FSFI-assessing domains, the highest average score for the whole group correlated with satisfaction and the lowest score correlated with lubrication use. Our findings indicate that women practicing only breastfeeding are more likely to develop sexual problems. In order to maintain sexual health and promote long-term breastfeeding, extensive and professional counseling is needed for couples about postpartum sexuality and the factors that affect it, such as breastfeeding.

Maternal disability and initiation and duration of breastfeeding: analysis of a Canadian cross-sectional survey

BackgroundThe World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding as the best method for infant feeding. Known risk factors for breastfeeding non-initiation and early cessation of breastfeeding are diverse and include low breastfeeding self-efficacy, poverty, smoking, obesity, and chronic illness. Although women with disabilities experience elevated rates of these risk factors, few studies have examined their breastfeeding outcomes. Our objective was to examine breastfeeding non-initiation and early cessation of breastfeeding in women with and without disabilities.MethodsWe used data from the 2017–2018 Canadian Community Health Survey. Included were n = 4,817 women aged 15–55 years who had a birth in the last five years, of whom 26.6% had a disability, ascertained using the Washington Group Short Set on Functioning. Prevalence ratios (aPR) of breastfeeding non-initiation, and of early cessation of any and exclusive breastfeeding before 6 months, were calculated for women with versus without disabilities. We also examined disability by severity (moderate/severe and mild, separately) and number of action domains impacted (≥ 2 and 1, separately). The main multivariable models were adjusted for maternal age, marital status, level of education, annual household income level, and immigrant status.ResultsThere were no differences between women with and without disabilities in breastfeeding non-initiation (9.6% vs. 8.9%; aPR 0.88, 95% CI 0.63, 1.23). Women with disabilities were more likely to have early cessation of any (44.4% vs. 35.7%) and exclusive breastfeeding before 6 months (66.9% vs. 61.3%), with some attenuation in risk after adjustment for sociodemographic factors (aRR 1.15, 95% CI 0.99, 1.33 and aRR 1.07, 95% 0.98, 1.16, respectively). Disparities were larger for women with moderate/severe disabilities and disabilities in ≥ 2 domains, with differences attenuated by adjustment for socio-demographics.ConclusionsWomen with disabilities, and particularly those with moderate/severe and multiple disabilities, could benefit from tailored, accessible breastfeeding supports that attend to the social determinants of health.

Nursing discharge teaching of hospitalized postpartum women in China: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundPostpartum women encounter a diverse array of physiological challenges following childbirth, and they may also contend with issues such as a lack of self-care knowledge childcare knowledge, and childcare experience. This study aimed to explore the quality of discharge teaching for hospitalized postpartum women. MethodsA total of 292 parturients who gave birth in a tertiary hospital were selected using the convenience sampling method and surveyed using a general data questionnaire and discharge teaching quality scale. ResultsThe total score for the quality of discharge teaching was 111.95 ​± ​28.64. In bivariate analysis, significant differences were identified between postpartum women with differences in postpartum complications, ambulation time, wound pain, infant health status, and infant feeding methods (p ​< ​0.05). Wound pain and infant feeding methods were significant factors in a multiple linear regression model (p ​< ​0.05). ConclusionsNursing staff should focus on psychological nursing care and give more personalized teaching to postpartum women with severe wound pain and who bottle feed their newborns.