Effects of prenatal professional breastfeeding education for the family

Sci Rep. 2022 Apr 2;12(1):5577. doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-09586-y.

Abstract

Mastering the correct breastfeeding posture remains a challenge for many new mothers. Generalized pregnancy breastfeeding education plays a role in helping mothers master breastfeeding positions and prevent nipple damage. This study prospectively analyzed the effects of prenatal professional breastfeeding education for the family on mastering the lactation latch and preventing nipple damage. Medical records of pregnant women in the authors' hospital from April 2020 to July 2020 were prospectively analyzed. A total of 342 patients were enrolled and divided into experimental and control groups according to whether or not they had received prenatal professional breastfeeding education for the family by the random number table method. The difference in the mastery rate of the postpartum breastfeeding posture and nipple damage was examined three days postpartum. The mastery rate in the experimental group (88.5%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (63.8%), whereas the rate of nipple damage in the experimental group (23.1%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (46.9%). Prenatal professional breastfeeding education for the family can promote mothers' mastery of breastfeeding latch skills and reduce the risk of nipple damage.

MeSH terms

  • Breast Feeding*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mothers / education
  • Nipples
  • Postpartum Period
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Education*