Recognition of International Board Certified Lactation Consultants by health insurance providers in the United States: results of a national survey of lactation consultants

Breastfeeding-supportive hospital practices and breastfeeding maintenance: results from the Louisiana pregnancy risk assessment monitoring system

OBJECTIVE

Identify practices associated with breastfeeding maintenance, examine breastfeeding-related hospital practices by hospital designation level (Baby Friendly vs. Gift vs. none), and assess racial disparities in hospital practices and breastfeeding maintenance.

STUDY DESIGN

The Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System is a population-based survey of mothers who have recently given birth. Non-Hispanic Black (NHB) and non-Hispanic White (NHW) participants who gave birth from 2016-2019 and initiated breastfeeding were included (n = 2200). Associations between twelve breastfeeding-related hospital and breastfeeding at 2-6 months postpartum were assessed. Baby Friendly hospital designation is based on a set of criteria related to hospital practices that promote breastfeeding. The Gift is a Louisiana program that offers a lower level designation and quality improvement support designed to help hospitals transition to and achieve Baby Friendly designation.

RESULT

Breastfeeding in the hospital, infant only receiving breast milk, and breastfeeding within one hour after birth were positively associated and receiving a gift pack with formula was negatively associated with breastfeeding maintenance in both NHW and NHB women. Associations were stronger in NHW compared to NHB mothers.

CONCLUSION

We identified several practices significantly associated with breastfeeding maintenance. However, racial disparities indicate a need for population-specific supportive practices.

Improving Exclusive Breastfeeding Behavior of Primipara Mothers With Lactation Education and Individualized Counseling Intervention

Introduction

New mothers often need support to establish and maintain breastfeeding, and they may find it difficult to access breastfeeding resources locally. Therefore, postpartum lactation education and counseling of primipara mothers were given by integrating into their routine follow-ups in the family health center. This study was conducted to determine the effect of lactation education and individual counseling intervention integrated into the routine follow-up visits of primipara mothers in family health centers on exclusive breastfeeding rates and breastfeeding behaviors during the first 6 months postpartum.

Methods

A two-factor, pretest–posttest, controlled, semi-experimental, prospective study was conducted. The study was conducted in three family health centers in a city on the north coast of Turkey. The interviews with the primipara mothers were performed between the 24th and 72nd hours and at the 1st, 3rd, 4th, 6th months postpartum.

Results

The rates of giving exclusive breastfeeding to the infants in the first 6 months were 68% in the study group and 38% in the control group, exhibiting a statistically significant difference between the groups with regard to breastfeeding frequency (p =.001).

Conclusions

It was determined that the education and counseling integrated into the existing health system were effective in increasing the EBF rates and breastfeeding behaviors of primipara mothers in the first 6 months after birth.

Social Determinants of Breastfeeding in the United States

Despite overall improvement in breastfeeding in the past 3 decades in the United States, significant and alarming social disparities persist. Adverse social determinants of health are increasingly recognized as root causes of social disparities in health outcomes, including breastfeeding initiation and continuation. We provide an overview of the evidence and mechanisms by which social determinants of health, including education, employment, food, neighborhood, and housing contribute to ongoing social disparities in breastfeeding in the United States, including current research gaps. We also review the intersection of social determinants of health with income, racism, and theory of planned behavior, a commonly used decision-making framework for breastfeeding promotion. Future interventions to address social determinants of breastfeeding should occur at the policy, community, organization, and individual levels.

Factors affecting breastfeeding in women with epilepsy

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare rates of breastfeeding initiation and maintenance in women with epilepsy (WWE) with those of the general population and to identify factors affecting breastfeeding patterns in WWE.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed data for the following variables in pregnant WWE (n = 102) and healthy women without epilepsy (n = 112): demographic characteristics (age, race, ethnicity), epilepsy type (focal or generalized onset), antiseizure medication(s), psychiatric comorbidities, postpartum seizure control, breastfeeding counseling, and lactation consultation. Fisher exact test and logistic regression analyses were performed to compare the rates of breastfeeding initiation and continuation in pregnant WWE with those of healthy pregnant women and to determine factors associated with rates of breastfeeding initiation and maintenance.

RESULTS

The rate of breastfeeding initiation in WWE was significantly lower than in healthy women without epilepsy (50.9% vs. 87.6%), and WWE were less likely to maintain breastfeeding at 6 weeks (38.2%) and 3 months (36%) postpartum. Nearly half (53%) of WWE received antepartum breastfeeding counseling by their neurologists, and these women had higher odds of breastfeeding initiation and continuation (odds ratio [OR] = 2.53, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.14-5.72, p = .02). Postpartum consultation with a board-certified lactation consultant was associated with higher odds of breastfeeding continuation at 6 weeks (OR = 5.43, 95% CI = 1.39-27.23, p = .02) and at 3 months (OR = 4.9, 95% CI = 1.34-20.87, p = .019). Women taking levetiracetam were more likely to initiate and continue breastfeeding than those taking lamotrigine (OR = 6.22, 95% CI = 2.15-20.20, p = .001).

SIGNIFICANCE

The initiation rate and duration of breastfeeding were significantly lower in WWE than in healthy women without epilepsy and were significantly associated with several factors. Identification of potential barriers to breastfeeding in WWE may lead to development of intervention strategies that can improve breastfeeding rates in WWE to maximize positive health outcomes for WWE and their infants.

Ankyloglossia Identification, Diagnosis, and Frenotomy : A Qualitative Study of Community Referral Pathways

BACKGROUND

Researchers and practitioners continue to debate the most appropriate assessment, diagnostic, and treatment practices for ankyloglossia (tongue-tie). Health care workers struggle to provide evidence-based care in the absence of consistent standards.

RESEARCH AIM

The aims of this pilot study were to qualitatively (a) evaluate the knowledge of, and attitudes toward tongue-tie and (b) describe how they shaped referral pathways and the establishment of practice patterns of frontline practitioners (pediatric dentists, speech-language pathologists, pediatric chiropractors, and International Board Certified Lactation Consultants).

METHODS

We recruited clinicians (N = 9) using nonprobability purposive sampling. Participants were interviewed using survey schedules adjusted to reflect their specialty area. Semistructured interviews were transcribed and coded using manual and inductive coding techniques common in grounded theory. Themes were iteratively developed using memoing techniques, in which observations and potential concepts were recorded using the aforementioned codes.

RESULTS

Participants were familiar with a variety of protocols and assessment tools, but did not consistently use them. No formal training about the management of tongue-tie was received through their degree programs. Instead they pursued self-guided study. Interprofessional consensus guided opinions about tongue-tie best practices, and referral pathways reflected these consensuses. International Board Certified Lactation Consultants were viewed as pivotal to the care of infants with tongue-tie while primary care physicians-primarily pediatricians-were omitted from referral pathways.

CONCLUSION

Lack of formalized training, professional consensus about best practices, and insufficient resources for assessing and treating tongue-tie led participants to incomplete referral pathways and personal interpretations of the data through the lens of anecdotal evidence.

Effectiveness of the IBCLC: Have we Made an Impact on the Care of Breastfeeding Families Over the Past Decade?

BACKGROUND

International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) have been in existence for over 3 decades, are currently represented in 110 countries, and have the only internationally recognized certification to provide safe and evidenced-based care for breastfeeding women and their infants.

RESEARCH AIM

To review the literature about the efficacy of IBCLCs on breastfeeding outcomes as well as studies that have examined the effectiveness of the IBCLC's role.

METHODS

The design was a scoping review of the literature and critical analysis using PRISMA guidelines of existing studies published from 2008-2019. Qualitative and quantitative studies were reviewed.

RESULTS

Twelve (N =12) studies met inclusion criteria. Seven themes emerged in the analysis including studies of the role of IBCLCs in resident physician education; IBCLC's role in breastfeeding interventions and the management of breastfeeding problems; the impact of IBCLCs in inpatient and outpatient settings; and the impact of geographic access to IBCLCs on breastfeeding rates. Certification of and ongoing professional development of IBCLCs are also discussed.

CONCLUSION

In this scoping review of existing literature assessing the effectiveness of IBCLCs in promoting and supporting breastfeeding, it is clear that IBCLCs play a positive role in supporting breastfeeding throughout the world. However, there are certain limitations that must be addressed. Recommendations for future research and clinical practice are discussed in the context of present limitations to breastfeeding expertise and support.

Geographic Access to International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants in Pennsylvania

BACKGROUND:

Availability of professional lactation support has been associated with increased breastfeeding rates; however, data about access to international board-certified lactation consultants are limited.

RESEARCH AIMS:

The aims were (a) to assess geographic access to international board-certified lactation consultants in Pennsylvania, (b) to compare access in rural/urban counties, and (c) to compare access by county-level breastfeeding initiation rates.

METHODS:

Using geographic information systems methodology and a cross-sectional observational design, we calculated the proportion of young children living within 15, 30, and 60 miles of international board-certified lactation consultants in Pennsylvania. We calculated these proportions for all children in Pennsylvania, for children in urban and rural counties, and for children in counties with low, medium, and high breastfeeding initiation rates. Comparisons were done to answer the research aims.

RESULTS:

Over 90% of young children live within 30 miles of an international board-certified lactation consultant. Compared to children in urban counties, fewer children in rural counties live within 15 and 30 miles of these providers. In counties with high breastfeeding initiation rates, a larger percentage of children live within 15 miles of an international board-certified lactation consultant than in counties with low breastfeeding initiation rates.

CONCLUSION:

While most Pennsylvania children live in proximity of an international board-certified lactation consultant, this was true for a lower percentage of children in rural counties and in counties with lower breastfeeding rates.

Enhancing Breastfeeding Through Healthcare Support: Results from a Focus Group Study of African American Mothers

Objectives To explore African American women's breastfeeding thoughts, attitudes, and experiences with healthcare professionals and subsequent influences on their breastfeeding interest and behavior. Insight was also sought about the most effective practices to provide breastfeeding support to African American women. Methods Thirty-eight pregnant or lactating African American women and racially diverse health professionals were recruited and participated in one of six membership specific focus groups in the metro Detroit area. An experienced focus group facilitator who was African American woman served as the primary group facilitator, using a semi-structured guide to discussions. Focus groups explored perceptions of personal and professional roles and behaviors that support African American women's breastfeeding behavior. Discussions were digitally recorded and audiotapes were transcribed. Thematic content analysis was conducted in combination with a review of field notes. Results Participants generally agreed that breastfeeding is the healthier feeding method but perceived that healthcare providers were not always fully supportive and sometimes discouraged breastfeeding. Non-breastfeeding mothers often expressed distrust of the information and recommendations given by healthcare providers and relied more on peers and relatives. Health professionals lacked information and skills to successfully engage African American women around breastfeeding. Conclusions for Practice Breastfeeding initiation and duration among African American mothers may increase when postpartum breastfeeding interventions address social and cultural challenges and when hospital breastfeeding support with the right professional lactation support, is void of unconscious bias and bridges hospital, community, peers, and family support. Professional lactation training for healthcare professionals who are in contact with expectant and new mothers and an increase in the number of IBCLC of color could help.

First Food Justice: Infant Feeding Disparities and the First Food System

Breastfeeding and first foods--including human milk and infant formula--affect us all as individuals and a society of eaters and feeders. They also shape us in part through having significant effects on community health and well-being, workplace strength, and environmental integrity. In addition, we all affect breastfeeding and first foods. Society, the economy, and the environment constrain and enable breastfeeding success, for example, and they often do so differently by race, class, and other social categories. It is important we recognize and address these realities for our own individual interests as well as those we as a citizenry hold in common.

The Impact of Hospital Resources and Availability of Professional Lactation Support on Maternity Care: Results of Breastfeeding Surveys 2009-2014

BACKGROUND

Breastfeeding provides maternal and infant health benefits. Maternity care practices encompassed in the 10 Steps to Successful Breastfeeding are positively associated with improved breastfeeding outcomes. This study assessed changes in maternity care practices and lactation support.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In 2009, 2011, and 2014, New York (NY) hospitals providing maternity care services were surveyed to assess the implementation of 9 of the 10 Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, professional lactation support, distribution of formula and discharge packs, and patient and hospital barriers to breastfeeding success. Generalized estimating equations were used to evaluate changes over time.

RESULTS

Surveys were completed by 138/138 (2009), 128/129 (2011), and 125/125 (2014) NY hospitals. During this time period, the percent of hospitals reporting implementation of Steps 2, 4, 6, or 9 increased, and the mean number of 9 steps implemented increased from 4.3 to 5.3. Hospitals distributing formula samples at discharge to breastfeeding mothers decreased significantly from 39 (32%) to 3 (2%). Professional lactation staffing ratios (N/1,000 births) of both International Board Certified Lactation Consultants and Certified Lactation Counselors increased between 2009 and 2011, but then decreased between 2011 and 2014. Reported barriers to breastfeeding support changed, with reductions in mixed messages from staff, but increases in lack of financial resources for breastfeeding support, inadequate prenatal education, mothers not being prepared, and family not being receptive to breastfeeding.

CONCLUSIONS

Between 2009 and 2014, NY hospitals reported increased barriers and a reduction in professional lactation support, which may have contributed to the limited improvements in breastfeeding support.

Medicaid IBCLC Service Coverage following the Affordable Care Act and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services Update

BACKGROUND

International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) are associated with increased rates and duration of breastfeeding. Recent US legislation offers opportunities for private and public insurers to include IBCLC services as a covered benefit.

OBJECTIVE

To explore US states' Medicaid coverage of IBCLC services following January 2014 legislative expansions of coverage for preventive health services.

METHODS

To assess IBCLC reimbursement practices, 20 states, stratified by Medicaid expansion (yes/no) and 3-month exclusive breastfeeding rates, were selected to participate. An electronic survey was sent to Medicaid and Maternal Health Directors, breastfeeding coordinators, and Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) coordinators between July and December 2014. Email follow-ups clarified missing or ambiguous responses.

RESULTS

Of the 15 states responding, 9 had Medicaid expansion. None of the states permitted IBCLCs to bill for services autonomously. In 9 states, IBCLC services were covered with some type of stipulation, for example, billing under a physician. Of the 9 states with IBCLC coverage, 7 had accepted Medicaid expansion. States with higher rates of exclusive breastfeeding were also more likely to provide IBCLC coverage.

CONCLUSION

Recent legislative changes to public and private insurance that could expand coverage of IBCLCs have not yielded appreciable changes, particularly in states without Medicaid expansion. There is a need for research on the effects of adopting expanded coverage for IBCLCs and advocacy to do so.