For Promoting Breast-Feeding Success, Consistent Follow-Up Is Key

Although the benefits of breast-feeding are well known, relatively few women continue the practice at 3 months postpartum despite a high incidence of early initiation. Researchers in Hong Kong conducted a prospective, randomized, controlled trial involving 722 primiparous mother–infant pairs at three public hospitals to evaluate the efficacy of standard care versus two interventions to promote ongoing breast-feeding. Standard care included group lactation education, individualized assistance for problems, and follow-up after discharge. In-hospital support consisted of three individualized, 30–45-minute support sessions within the first 48 hours postpartum. Weekly telephone follow-up began at 72 hours postpartum and continued for 4 weeks or …