Prenatal education and the commencement of breastfeeding: A literature review

Abstract

Introduction: The recommendations on child nourishment include starting maternal breastfeeding within the first hour of life, and continuing it, exclusively, during the first 6 months of life; thereafter, a complementary diet can be included.

Methodology: A systematic search in diverse databases related to the health area was conducted with the objective of determining the influence of prenatal education provided, in general by the health professionals, and in particular by midwives, on the mothers’ decision to breastfeed.

Results and discussion: The success of maternal breastfeeding depends on the information and the support provided to her family. Barriers to breastfeeding include the lack of information and support, the inadequate sanitary practices, and the poor preparation of the health professionals. Promoters to breastfeeding include having been assisted by a midwife during the partum. There is category-A evidence, that prenatal classes given by midwives, and the early establishment of maternal breastfeeding -following the partum -both increment the prevalence, duration, and exclusivity of breastfeeding. There were no significant differences related to the motives of abandoning breastfeeding among women who had prenatal education and who did not.

Conclusions: The maternal education provided by midwives from the first prenatal visit is a promoting factor to establishing and maintaining breastfeeding. In general, prenatal education should include explanations of the benefits of breastfeeding, as well as simple guidelines related to the possible doubts.