Breastfeeding practices that support women with diabetes to breastfeed. Issue 1 (October 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fallon, Anne; Dunne, Fidelma
• Is Part Of: Diabetes research and clinical practice. Volume 110:Issue 1(2015)
• Page Start: 10
• Page End: 17
• Publication Date: 2015-10
• Subjects: Breastfeeding -- Diabetes -- Mother -- Infant -- Postnatal -- Maslow; Diabetes -- Periodicals; Diabetes Mellitus -- Periodicals; 616.462
• DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2015.07.006
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0168-8227

Abstract

Highlights: Breastfeeding as the first feed following birth is beneficial. The woman's collective diabetes, breastfeeding and infant's needs require consideration. An early first breastfeed is recommended. Care from an informed multidisciplinary team is supportive. Guidance to deal with common breastfeeding concerns is encouraged. Abstract: The aim of this literature review was to identify breastfeeding practices that support women with diabetes to breastfeed. A search was undertaken of CINAHL and Medline databases to identify studies that inform breastfeeding practice for women with diabetes. This resulted in 14 studies (19 records). Most studies focused on women with GDM and T1D with some consideration of T2D. The review has been organised using Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, to enable a clear focus on the needs of women while identifying supportive practices. The key findings of this review are that breastfeeding as the first feed and exclusive breastfeeding are beneficial to meeting physiological needs. Preparations such as having food nearby and having someone to call on can help meet the woman's safety and security needs. A sense of love and belonging is supported by the practice of an early first breastfeed, but antenatal breast milk expression is currently not recommended. The woman's self-esteem can be enhanced through informed multidisciplinary support. Finally, self-actualisation or success with breastfeeding has been achieved by women with diabetes. Common breastfeeding concerns rather than diabetes have been identified as reasons for cessation of breastfeeding. Practices that support women deal with these concerns are recommended.