Problems of feeding, sleeping and excessive crying in infancy: a general population study. Issue 11 (3rd July 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Olsen, Anne Lise; Ammitzbøll, Janni; Olsen, Else Marie; Skovgaard, Anne Mette
• Is Part Of: Archives of disease in childhood. Volume 104:Issue 11(2019)
• Page Start: 1034
• Page End: 1041
• Publication Date: 2019-07-03
• Subjects: regulatory problems -- sleeping problems -- feeding problems -- excessive crying -- infancy -- parent–child relationship problems -- population study; Children -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Infants -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 618.920005
• DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2019-316851
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-9888

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: To study regulatory problems (RPs) of feeding, sleeping and excessive crying in infancy, and explore the influence of maternal mental health problems and parent–child relationship problems. Design and setting: Data were collected in the general child health surveillance delivered to infant families by community health nurses (CHNs). Information on CHNs' assessments and conclusions were obtained on 2598 infants and merged with data from national registers. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression models were used to study RPs in early and late infancy, and the influences due to child, family and parent–child relationship problems. Results: Combined RPs (C-RPs), defined as two or more simultaneous problems of feeding, sleeping or excessive crying, was identified in 2.9% and 8.6% of the population between age 2–6 and 8–11 months, respectively. Low maternal schooling and immigrant parents were associated with an increased risk of late C-RPs, but RPs in early infancy stand out as the main predictor of late C-RPs OR 3.4 (95% CI 1.8 to 6.6), and the effect of early maternal mental health problems and parent–child relationship problems seem to be mediated by early C-RPs. Conclusions: Combined problems of feeding, sleeping or excessive crying may exist throughout infancy independently of exposures to maternal mental health problems and parent–child relationship problems. The results indicate that infants with RPs exceeding age 2 months need special attention, in clinical as well as community settings. Suggested intervention includes specific guidance to the parents to help them understand and regulate their infant's sensitivity and reactions.