Breastfeeding travelers: precautions and recommendations

Breastfeeding During Travel: Barriers and Informational Support for Mothers Traveling With or Without Infants

INTRODUCTION

Although breastfeeding during air travel is recommended, mothers often face various challenges when doing so.

METHODS

A review of evidence-based and grey literature was undertaken to examine key considerations surrounding breastfeeding during air travel, barriers encountered by breastfeeding mothers while traveling, and need-based informational support for breastfeeding mothers traveling with or without their infants.

RESULTS

Regardless of whether breastfeeding mothers are traveling with or without their children, they require adequate information on airport screening processes, ways to maintain breastfeeding practices during travel, safe storage of expressed breastmilk, airport lactation amenities, the cultural context and breastfeeding laws of the country of travel, and infection protection measures, to assure safety and reduce health risks.

CONCLUSION

The role of informational and social support is essential for promoting, protecting, and supporting the breastfeeding practices of mothers during air travel.