Breast milk production and emotional state in mothers of very low birth weight infants

Abstract

Introduction. There is little evidence regarding the influence of emotional variables on breastfeeding among mothers of very low birth weight infants (VLBWIs). The objective of this study was to measure breast milk production (BMP) at two points in time during neonatal hospitalization and its association with anxiety, depression, and breastfeeding self-efficacy levels among mothers of VLBWIs. Population and methods. Prospective, observational, and multicenter study in mothers of VLBWIs (500-1500 g) from 9 NEOCOSUR Network centers. BMP was obtained by measuring the amount extracted by each mother. The STAI scale was used for anxiety, the BDI scale for depression, and the ALMA pilot scale for selfefficacy. They were administered at 14 days of life and at 36 weeks of postmenstrual age. The biosocial characteristics of mothers and neonates were also recorded. Results. A total of 118 mothers participated. Mean BMP was 169 mL (standard deviation [SD]: ± 132.4) at 14 days and 285 mL (SD: ± 266.9) at 36 weeks, and it was significantly associated with the perception of breastfeeding self-efficacy (p < 0.001), which was maintained during hospitalization. There was a lower production trend among mothers with higher depression indices at 14 days of life, but not at 36 weeks. No association was observed between BMP and anxiety. No consistently significant associations were observed with biosocial variables. Conclusion. BMP was positively associated with breastfeeding self-efficacy; no association was observed with anxiety and depression among mothers of VLBWIs.

Sociodemographic determinants associated with breastfeeding in term infants with low birth weight in Latin American countries

“…Some barriers to BF adherence were associated with the use of breast milk substitutes, advanced ages, separation of the mother–child dyad, and compromised emotional states of the mother. Facilitators for achieving self-efficacy levels were family and social support, maternal education and experience, and adequate follow-up of the mother’s and newborn’s health status by health services[ 2 , 17 , 19 - 26 ] (Table 3 ).…”

Cross-cultural adaptation of the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale Short Form (BSES-SF) modified for preterm mothers in Brazil

“…The period of hospitalization after a preterm birth generates stress and insecurity in the family (5) . The clinical conditions and physiological immaturity of the preterm newborn often make the process of breastfeeding difficult; this complexity can be related to both the fragility of the baby and to the experiences of mothers, who, faced with challenges, commonly feel unable to breastfeed their children (6)(7) .…”