Open AccessImpact of Doula-Led Lactation Education on Breastfeeding Outcomes in Low-Income, Minoritized Mothers
Author(s) -
Adetola LouisJacques,
Shanda Vereen,
Ivonne Hernández,
Sarah Običan,
Tara F. Deubel,
Elizabeth M. Miller,
Diane L. Spatz,
Roneé E. Wilson
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
the journal of perinatal education
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1548-8519
pISSN - 1058-1243
DOI - 10.1891/j-pe-d-20-00022
Subject(s) - breastfeeding , lactation , low income , medicine , nursing , pediatrics , pregnancy , biology , socioeconomics , sociology , genetics
Prenatal education may improve breastfeeding outcomes among low-income women. Our objective was to assess breastfeeding intentions and knowledge among women participating in doula-facilitated prenatal education classes from August 2016 to October 2017. Breastfeeding knowledge and infant feeding intentions were assessed before and after the classes. Breastfeeding rates were assessed at birth, 2-4 weeks postpartum, and 6-8 weeks postpartum. Paired t -tests tests were conducted. A total of 121 racially diverse, low-income women were enrolled. Intentions to breastfeed increased pre- to post-intervention ( p = 0.007). Breastfeeding knowledge scores increased pre- to post-intervention ( p <.001); specifically, among women who were exclusively breastfeeding or breastfeeding while supplementing with formula at birth ( p < .001 and p = 0.046, respectively). Doula-facilitated breastfeeding education may help improve breastfeeding outcomes for low-income women.