Information and support for happy breastfeeding is essential. Now we know a little more about this training and its effectiveness. A review of previous publications has indicated that interventions aimed at promoting and maintaining breastfeeding They are effective if performed before and after birth and with the support of non-health personnel.
The study included 38 clinical trials on any educational or counseling intervention initiated from a medical consultation to improve the initiation rate of breastfeeding or its duration, directed at mothers or a supportive member of their environment.
Interventions could be performed by several Agents: lactation consultants, nurses, other nursing mothers, midwives and doctors. I imagine that, among health workers, pediatricians would be involved, which as we have seen on several occasions may have a relevant role.
Support interventions were also given in various settings: hospital, home, clinic or any other place provided that the origin of the intervention was in a health consultation.
The conclusion of the review is that breastfeeding promotion interventions are more effective than conventional care to increase their prevalence in the short and long term. Pre and post-natal interventions, including non-health support staff for breastfeeding, are the most effective.
The role of midwives and doulas in this regard may be one of the most enriching and effective, such as that of other nursing mothers and breastfeeding support groups. The needs of recent mothers in many cases go through a helping hand or a companion rather than medical attention, and emotional support is essential in the first weeks after delivery.
I think it's fundamental that not only medical staff is involved in the promotion and support of breastfeeding, but as we see other agents are fundamental, I would even say that better when the mother or the baby do not need to be in a hospital setting.
