Early term infants less likely to breastfeed

DN Bureau

According to a recent study, 'early term' infants are less likely to be breastfed than full-term infants within the first hour and at one month after birth.

'early term' infants are less likely to be breastfed than full-term infants
'early term' infants are less likely to be breastfed than full-term infants


Washington D.C: According to a recent study, 'early term' infants are less likely to be breastfed than full-term infants within the first hour and at one month after birth.

Also Read: All you need to know about breastfeeding

The study also found that the early-term infants had lower exclusive breastfeeding and lower breastfeeding intensity during the first 72 hours in the hospital and at one month.

Also Read | Breast milk could help prevent heart disease premature infants

The researchers recommend that extra attention and lactation assistance need to be given to the early term infant and mother to help them overcome the difficulties in breastfeeding that may be caused by the neurologic immaturity of the infants.

Findings of the study were published in the Journal of Breastfeeding Medicine.

Also Read | Early introduction of peanuts in babies to reduce allergy risk, study suggests

Beginning breastfeeding within the critical hour(s) after birth can have a substantial impact on continuation rates at one month and on infant health, morbidity, and mortality.

Also Read: Long-term breastfeeding may lead more cavities

"This study emphasizes that though technically labelled as term infants, this is a high-risk population that requires added and targeted breastfeeding support programs," said I. Eidelman, lead author of the study. (ANI)










Related Stories