The establishment of breastfeeding in the small-for-gestational-age baby. (2nd February 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dooks, Emma; Owens, David; Stacey, Tomasina
• Is Part Of: British journal of midwifery. Volume 28:Number 2(2020)
• Page Start: 90
• Page End: 95
• Publication Date: 2020-02-02
• Subjects: Breastfeeding -- Establishment of feeding -- Small for gestational age -- Growth restricted; Midwifery -- Periodicals; Women's health services -- Periodicals; Maternity nursing -- Periodicals; 618.2
• DOI: 10.12968/bjom.2020.28.2.90
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0969-4900

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Term babies born smaller than expected for a given gestation are at greater risk of short- and long-term health conditions. Breastmilk is the optimum nutrition for all babies and offers specific protection from the risks that follow from being born small for gestational age. Aim: To explore breastfeeding outcomes for babies born with a birthweight below the 10th centile. Methods: Data were collected on all women giving birth in one maternity unit in the north of England over a year. Method of feeding at three time points was compared between small-for-gestational-age and appropriately grown babies. Findings: Small-for-gestational-age babies were significantly less likely to be breastfeeding at discharge from hospital and community services compared to larger babies. Conclusion: This study suggests that small-for-gestational-age babies are disadvantaged in establishing breastfeeding.