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Physiologic Breastfeeding: A Contemporary Approach to Breastfeeding Initiation
Author(s) -
Schafer Robyn,
Genna Catherine Watson
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
journal of midwifery and women's health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.543
H-Index - 62
eISSN - 1542-2011
pISSN - 1526-9523
DOI - 10.1111/jmwh.12319
Subject(s) - breastfeeding , dyad , medicine , psychological intervention , breast feeding , nursing , psychology , family medicine , pediatrics , developmental psychology
Early initiation of breastfeeding has numerous benefits for maternal‐child health. Maternity care providers have been shown to play a significant role in establishing breastfeeding, yet there is limited research about clinical approaches that support breastfeeding initiation in the immediate postpartum. Traditional methods that focused on position and attachment have not demonstrated consistent, positive effects on breastfeeding outcomes. Contemporary approaches to breastfeeding initiation emphasize innate maternal and neonatal breastfeeding abilities and the importance of breastfeeding self‐efficacy, dyad‐centered care, and a supportive breastfeeding environment free from unnecessary interventions. Recommendations for clinical practice for physiologic breastfeeding initiation are provided.