Exploratory Study: Knowledge about the Benefits of Breastfeeding and Barriers for Initiation in Mothers of Children with Spina Bifida

Abstract

The aim of the study is to identify the level of knowledge on breastfeeding by mothers of infants with spina bifida and the barriers encountered in initiating breastfeeding. A non-probabilisitic sample (n=30) of mothers was used in this study. The sample was obtained in two institutions specializing in care for infants with congenital anomalies in Puerto Rico. A self-administered questionnaire was used consisting of six sections. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Among participants, 56.7% had adequate knowledge on the benefits of breastfeeding. The most frequently encountered barriers in initiating breastfeeding were related to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Problems with the medical and nursing procedures, routines, support from personnel, and adequacy of the environment were the most frequent. It is important to develop a education to encourage nurses and other health care professionals need suggest, support and encourage breastfeeding to mothers of infants with neural tube defects.

Breastfeeding Promotion for Management of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome

“…Neonates with severe NAS may be separated from their mothers for close monitoring, scoring of withdrawal symptoms, and pharmacologic treatment in the NICU, which presents barriers to successful breastfeeding (Rivera, Torres, Rodríguez, de Longo, & Peralta, 2008). Lactation consultants who are familiar with the NAS symptoms that interfere with the infant's ability to latch-on and adequately nurse are essential for breastfeeding success (Farid et al, 2008;Jansson, 2011;Tilton, 2012).…”

Effects of breastfeeding in postoperative complication in pediatric and adolescent population- a systematic review

“…Similarly, Torowicz et al 4 demonstrated how the high-stress environment of congenital heart defect patients complicates the establishment of a milk supply. Rivera et al 5 highlighted the role of the clinical environment, medical staff knowledge, and hospital routines in shaping breastfeeding experiences for infants with spina bifida.…”

Using art to raise awareness of breastfed children with medical complexity

“…However, childhood acute and chronic illness or disability is associated with increased challenge and lower breastfeeding rates [ 8 – 11 ]. Many of these sick children are cared for in the paediatric setting, which is a separate organisational directorate to the neonatal and maternity units.…”