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BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

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Open Access 01-12-2024 | Lactation | Research

Lactation support in neonatal intensive care units in Germany from the mothers’ perspective – a mixed-method study of the current status and needs

Authors: Isabella Schwab, Ricarda Wullenkord, Friederike Eyssel, Till Dresbach, Nadine Scholten, on behalf of Neo-MILK

Published in: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth | Issue 1/2024

Abstract

Background

Establishing successful lactation in mothers of very low birth weight (VLBW, <1500g) infants requires structured lactation support. Little is known about mothers’ perspectives on lactation support in German neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).

Methods

This paper features a convergent mixed-method approach that includes a retrospective, cross-sectional questionnaire and interview data to showcase mothers’ perceptions of lactation support in NICUs. Content analysis of the interviews (n = 12) and a descriptive analysis of quantitative data (n = 533) were performed to illustrate the current status and need for lactation support in German NICUs.

Results

The results show that lactation support in German NICUs is often inadequate and does not comply with recommendations based on the existing literature to encourage pumping and breastfeeding in mothers. The data imply that even if lactation is successfully initiated in most cases, it is often not maintained over time, which may be due to a lack of personal support and consistent information.

Conclusion

The overall structures and institutional guidelines for lactation support should be encouraged to promote nutrition with mother´s own milk in German NICUs.

Available only for authorised users

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Title: Lactation support in neonatal intensive care units in Germany from the mothers’ perspective – a mixed-method study of the current status and needs
Authors: Isabella Schwab
Ricarda Wullenkord
Friederike Eyssel
Till Dresbach
Nadine Scholten
on behalf of Neo-MILK
Publication date: 01-12-2024
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keywords: Lactation
Premature Birth
Published in: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth / Issue 1/2024
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2393
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-024-06339-9

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Lactation support in neonatal intensive care units in Germany from the mothers’ perspective – a mixed-method study of the current status and needs

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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