Does the recommendation to use a pacifier influence the prevalence of breastfeeding?

Effects of Complete Oral Motor Intervention and Nonnutritive Sucking Alone on the Feeding Performance of Premature Infants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

We explore the effect of complete oral motor intervention (OMI) and nonnutritive sucking (NNS) alone on oral feeding in preterm infants through a meta-analysis. We searched the Embased, Medline, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases for randomized controlled trials up to 8 August 2023, based on established selection criteria. Quality evaluations of the studies were carried out by applying both the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool and the Jadad scale. The outcome measures of three clinical indicators included transition time to oral feeding, weight gain, and hospitalization duration. We conducted a meta-analysis using a random-effects model to determine the pooled effect sizes, expressed as standardized mean differences (SMDs) and their corresponding confidence intervals (CIs). Additionally, we undertook a subgroup analysis and meta-regression to investigate any potential moderating factors. Eight randomized controlled trials with 419 participants were selected. Meta-analysis revealed that receiving a complete OMI had significantly reduced transition time compared with those receiving NNS alone in preterm newborns (SMD, -1.186; 95% CI, -2.160 to -0.212, p = 0.017). However, complete OMI had no significant effect on shortened hospitalization duration (SMD, -0.394; 95% CI, -0.979 to 0.192, p = 0.188) and increased weight gain (SMD, 0.346; 95% CI, -0.147 to 0.838, p = 0.169) compared with NNS alone. In brief, a complete OMI should not be replaced by NNS alone. However, we were unable to draw decisive conclusions because of the limitations of our meta-analysis. Future well-designed randomized controlled trials are necessary to confirm our conclusion.

Pacifier use and breastfeeding in term and preterm newborns-a systematic review and meta-analysis

The purpose of this study is to assess whether pacifier use is associated with breastfeeding success in term and preterm newborns and whether it influences hospitalization time in preterm newborns. Four databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and a systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted. The risk of bias and evidence quality, according to the GRADE methodology, were analyzed. Risk ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for dichotomous outcomes and mean difference (MD) for continuous outcomes were used. The random effect model was used if heterogeneity was high (I² over 40%). We screened 772 abstracts, assessed 44 full texts, and included 10 studies, of which 5 focused on term and 5 on preterm newborns. There were a few concerns about the risk of bias in 9 of the 10 studies. Breastfeeding rates were analyzed at 2, 3, 4, and 6 months, and the success rates were similar between the restricted and free pacifier use groups (evidence quality was moderate to high). In preterm neonates, the use of a pacifier shortened the duration of hospitalization by 7 days (MD 7.23, CI 3.98-10.48) and the time from gavage to total oral feeding by more than 3 days (MD 3.21 days, CI 1.19-5.24) (evidence quality was ranked as moderate).   Conclusions: Based on our meta-analysis, pacifier use should not be restricted in term newborns, as it is not associated with lower breastfeeding success rates. Furthermore, introducing pacifiers to preterm newborns should be considered, as it seems to shorten the time to discharge as well as the transition time from gavage to total oral feeding. What is Known: • Observational studies show that infants who use a pacifier are weaned from breastfeeding earlier. • Previous randomized studies have not presented such results, and there have been no differences in the successful breastfeeding rates regardless of the use of pacifier. What is New: • Term and preterm newborns do not have worse breastfeeding outcomes if a pacifier is introduced to them, and additionally preterm newborns have shorter hospitalization times. • The decision to offer a pacifier should depend on the caregivers instead of hospital policy or staff recommendation, as there is no evidence to support the prohibition or restriction.

The effects of early pacifier use on breastfeeding: A randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The majority of observational studies have found associations between pacifier use and shorter breastfeeding duration. Results from four randomised controlled trials did not reveal any difference in breastfeeding outcomes. The relationship between early pacifier use and breastfeeding outcomes remains unclear.

AIM

To investigate whether a recommendation of early pacifier use affects the proportion of breastfeeding at six months compared to a recommendation to avoid pacifier use during the first two weeks.

METHODS

An open, randomised controlled trial with parallel group design; 239 primiparous mothers and their term infants were randomly assigned to an intervention group or a control group. The primary outcome was the proportion of breastfeeding at six months. Secondary outcomes were the proportions of breastfeeding and breastfeeding problems at two and four months. To investigate factors which may influence breastfeeding, a multivariate logistic regressions analysis was performed.

FINDINGS

A total of 209 participants (87.5%) completed the study. There were no significant differences between the groups with respect to breastfeeding at six months. No negative association for breastfeeding between early versus late introduction of pacifier was found. Factors significantly associated with cessation of breastfeeding at six months were: use of nipple shield, intention to breastfeed, severe breastfeeding problems at two weeks, pacifier use at two months and lower educational level.

CONCLUSION

Early versus late recommendation of pacifier introduction did not affect the proportion of breastfeeding at six months. However, the compliance to the randomised group was insufficient. No negative association was found in the observational analysis.

Impact of a Baby-Friendly-Aligned Pacifier Policy on Pacifier Use at 1 Month of Age

OBJECTIVE

Pacifier use decreases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, but its impact on breastfeeding remains controversial. We evaluated the impact of a pacifier policy aligned with the World Health Organization and United Nations Children's Fund Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative on subsequent pacifier use and breastfeeding at 1 month of age.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective 2-stage (pre- and post-implementation) cohort study of newborns at a birth hospital before and after implementation of a Baby-Friendly-aligned pacifier policy. Consecutive mothers of newborns admitted to the nursery participated in a telephone survey when the infants were 1 month of age.

RESULTS

In total, 342 mothers participated (190 before and 152 after implementation of the policy). Pacifier adoption was delayed in the post-implementation group, but pacifier use by 1 month of age was comparable (78.9% pre-implementation vs 77.6% post-implementation; P = .793). In the pre-implementation group, female and male infants used pacifiers at comparable rates; however, in the post-implementation group, females were significantly less likely to use a pacifier compared to males after controlling for insurance, race, parity, and delivery mode (adjusted odds ratio, 0.35; 95% confidence interval, 0.15-0.83; P = .02). In the post-implementation group, exclusive breastfeeding rates at discharge increased significantly (from 40% to 51.3%; P = .04), but rates were not different at 1 month (23.7% pre-implementation vs 24.3% post-implementation; P = .89).

CONCLUSION

A Baby-Friendly-aligned pacifier policy delayed pacifier adoption but did not impact overall pacifier use or breastfeeding rates at 1 month of age. The finding of lower pacifier use rates among female infants post-intervention requires verification in other populations before evaluating public heath relevance.

Exclusive breastfeeding changes in Brazil attributable to pacifier use

BACKGROUND

Identifying key interventions to increase exclusive breastfeeding duration has been a challenge. Pacifier use has been associated with exclusive breastfeeding discontinuation in Brazil. However, the proportion of the improvement in exclusive breastfeeding duration attributable to pacifier use remains unknown.

RESEARCH AIM

Quantify the proportion of increases in exclusive breastfeeding prevalence that can be attributed to reduced pacifier use over time.

METHODS

Secondary data analyses of two nationally representative cross-sectional surveys conducted in States' capitals in 1999 and in 2008 (N = 42,395 Brazilian infants under 6 months of age). We estimated the fraction of exclusive breastfeeding prevalence improvements that could be attributed to pacifier use based on multilevel regression analysis.

RESULTS

From 1999 to 2008, there was an increase of 15.2 percentage points in exclusive breastfeeding prevalence and a decrease of approximately 17 percentage points in the prevalence of pacifier use among infants under 6 months. Reduction in pacifier use explained an increase in 5.5 percentage points' exclusive breastfeeding rates. If pacifier use were to decrease from 41.6% (prevalence in 2008) to 14% (as found in New Zealand), there would be an expected additional increase in exclusive breastfeeding of approximately 12 percentage points.

CONCLUSIONS

About one-third of the improvements in EBF prevalence observed in Brazil over a decade can be attributed to the corresponding decline in pacifier use.

The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative and the ten steps for successful breastfeeding. a critical review of the literature

There is no doubt regarding the multiple benefits of breastfeeding for infants and society in general. Therefore, the World Health Organization (WHO) in a conjoint effort with United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) developed the "Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding" in 1992, which became the backbone of the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI). Following this development, many hospitals and countries intensified their position towards creating a "breastfeeding oriented" practice. Over the past two decades, the interest increased in the BFHI and the Ten Steps. However, alongside the implementation of the initiative, extensive research continues to evaluate the benefits and dangers of the suggested practices. Hence, it is our intention to make a critical evaluation of the current BFHI and the Ten Steps recommendations in consideration of the importance of providing an evidence-based breastfeeding supported environment for our mothers and infants.

Pacifier Use and Early Life Weight Outcomes in the Intervention Nurses Start Infants Growing on Healthy Trajectories Study

BACKGROUND

Although widely used by infants, little is known about the long-term effects of pacifiers. We investigated relationships between pacifier use in infancy and appetite, temperament, feeding, and weight outcomes through age 2 years using data from the Intervention Nurses Start Infants Growing on Healthy Trajectories study.

METHODS

Mother-newborn dyads were randomized to a responsive parenting intervention for obesity prevention or a control group. Infants with data on pacifier use (n = 250) were categorized as using a pacifier beyond early infancy (≥4 months of age) or not. Anthropometrics were measured at 6 months, 1, and 2 years with overweight defined as weight-for-length ≥95th percentile at 1 year and BMI ≥85th percentile at 2 years. Mothers completed questionnaires on temperament, appetite, and feeding.

RESULTS

Infants who used a pacifier at 4 months or later (68%) had greater conditional weight gain from birth to 6 months (p = 0.01), weight-for-length z-score at 1 year (p < 0.001), and BMI z-score at 2 years (p < 0.001) than infants who did not. Infants using a pacifier at ≥4 months were more likely to be overweight at ages 1 year (11.7% vs. 1.3%, p = 0.03) and 2 years (20.1% vs. 7.9%, p = 0.03). Pacifier use was associated with shorter breastfeeding duration and less responsive parent feeding styles, but these variables did not mediate the relationship between pacifiers and weight. Parent-reported temperament and appetite were unrelated to pacifier use.

CONCLUSIONS

Pacifier use beyond early infancy is associated with accelerated infant growth and toddler overweight, although the reasons for this relationship are unclear.

Pacifier use and interruption of exclusive breastfeeding: Systematic review and meta-analysis

Identifying modifiable risk factor for exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) interruption is key for improving child health globally. There is no consensus about the effect of pacifier use on EBF interruption. Thus, the aim of this systematic review was to investigate the association between pacifier use and EBF interruption during the first six month. A search of CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS and Medline; from inception through 30 December 2014 without restriction of language yielded 1,866 publications (PROSPERO protocol CRD42014014527). Predetermined inclusion/exclusion criteria peer reviewed yielded 46 studies: two clinical trials, 20 longitudinal, and 24 cross-sectional studies. Meta-analysis was performed and meta-regression explored heterogeneity across studies. The pooled effect of the association between pacifier use and EBF interruption was 2.48 OR (95% CI = 2.16-2.85). Heterogeneity was explained by the study design (40.2%), followed by differences in the measurement and categorization of pacifier use, the methodological quality of the studies and the socio-economic context. Two RCT's with very limited external validity found a null association, but 44 observational studies, including 20 prospective cohort studies, did find a consistent association between pacifier use and risk of EBF interruption (OR = 2.28; 95% CI = 1.78-2.93). Our findings support the current WHO recommendation on pacifier use as it focuses on the risk of poor breastfeeding outcomes as a result of pacifier use. Future studies that take into account the risks and benefits of pacifier use are needed to clarify this recommendation.

Association Between In-Hospital Pacifier Use and Breastfeeding Continuation and Exclusivity: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Admission as a Possible Effect Modifier

BACKGROUND

Breastfeeding dyads frequently use pacifiers during the birth hospitalization, but the relationships between this exposure and breastfeeding continuation and exclusivity remain unclear.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this secondary analysis of cross-sectional survey data from the CDC Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) from 10 U.S. states (AK, AR, CO, ME, MN, NJ, NY, OR, TX, and VT) from 2009 to 2011, we assessed to what extent pacifier use during the birth hospitalization is independently associated with any and exclusive breastfeeding ≥10 weeks.

RESULTS

A total of 37,628 mothers who were chosen by random birth certificate sampling completed surveys at ∼4 months postpartum. Adjusting for multiple pro-breastfeeding hospital practices and maternal and infant demographic characteristics, pacifier exposure during the birth hospitalization was independently associated with decreased odds of breastfeeding ≥10 weeks (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]) 0.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.63-0.80, p < 0.0001) and exclusive breastfeeding ≥10 weeks (aOR 0.70, 95% CI 0.63-0.79, p < 0.0001) among infants admitted to the well-baby nursery, but not among those admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

CONCLUSIONS

In this population study of mothers from 10 U.S. states, pacifier use during the birth hospitalization was associated with decreased odds of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding ≥10 weeks among well-newborn, but not NICU-admitted infants. Pacifier use may be a marker rather than a cause of breastfeeding difficulties, but prospective, randomized studies are needed to help clarify this. Future studies exploring pacifier exposure and breastfeeding outcomes should account for NICU admission as an effect modifier.

Effect of restricted pacifier use in breastfeeding term infants for increasing duration of breastfeeding

BACKGROUND

To successfully initiate and maintain breastfeeding for a longer duration, the World Health Organization's Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding recommends total avoidance of artificial teats or pacifiers for breastfeeding infants. Concerns have been raised that offering the pacifier instead of the breast to calm the infant may lead to less frequent episodes of breastfeeding and as a consequence may reduce breast-milk production and shorten duration of breastfeeding.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effect of restricted versus unrestricted pacifier use in healthy full-term newborns whose mothers have initiated breastfeeding and intend to exclusively breastfeed, on the duration of breastfeeding, other breastfeeding outcomes and infant health.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (30 June 2016) and reference lists of retrieved studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials comparing restricted versus unrestricted pacifier use in healthy full-term newborns who have initiated breastfeeding.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion and risk of bias, extracted data and checked them for accuracy. The quality of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach.

MAIN RESULTS

We found three trials (involving 1915 babies) for inclusion in the review, but have included only two trials (involving 1302 healthy full-term breastfeeding infants) in the analysis. Meta-analysis of the two combined studies showed that pacifier use in healthy breastfeeding infants had no significant effect on the proportion of infants exclusively breastfed at three months (risk ratio (RR) 1.01; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.96 to 1.07, two studies, 1228 infants), and at four months of age (RR 1.01; 95% CI 0.94 to 1.09, one study, 970 infants, moderate-quality evidence), and also had no effect on the proportion of infants partially breastfed at three months (RR 1.00; 95% CI 0.98 to 1.02, two studies, 1228 infants), and at four months of age (RR 0.99; 95% CI 0.97 to 1.02, one study, 970 infants). None of the included trials reported data on the other primary outcomes, i.e. duration of partial or exclusive breastfeeding, or secondary outcomes: breastfeeding difficulties (mastitis, cracked nipples, breast engorgement); infant's health (dental malocclusion, otitis media, oral candidiasis; sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)); maternal satisfaction and level of confidence in parenting. One study reported that avoidance of pacifiers had no effect on cry/fuss behavior at ages four, six, or nine weeks and also reported no effect on the risk of weaning before age three months, however the data were incomplete and so could not be included for analysis.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Pacifier use in healthy term breastfeeding infants, started from birth or after lactation is established, did not significantly affect the prevalence or duration of exclusive and partial breastfeeding up to four months of age. Evidence to assess the short-term breastfeeding difficulties faced by mothers and long-term effect of pacifiers on infants' health is lacking.

Pacifier Use and Exclusive Breastfeeding in Brazil

BACKGROUND

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rates for infants younger than 6 months have increased in Brazil, although at the current pace of improvement it would take 6 years to reach an EBF rate of 50%. Thus, it is important to identify relevant modifiable key risk factors for the premature interruption of EBF.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to find out if pacifier use is an independent risk factor for the interruption of EBF among Brazilian infants.

METHODS

We conducted secondary cross-sectional data analyses of 2 waves of infant feeding surveys conducted in 1999 and in 2008 in the Brazilian state capitals and Federal District (N = 42 395 children < 6 months). Multivariate logistic regression was used to test the association between pacifier use and the risk of interruption of EBF in a pooled sample and within each survey wave, adjusting for socioeconomic, demographic, and biomedical confounders.

RESULTS

In the pooled sample, a third of the infants were exclusively breastfed (32.7%) and almost 50% had used a pacifier. Whereas EBF prevalence among infants increased from 25.1% in 1999 to 40.3% in 2008, pacifier use prevalence decreased from 58.5% to 41.6% in the same time period. Pacifier use was strongly associated with the risk of interruption of EBF in 1999 (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.65; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.38-2.94), in 2008 (AOR = 3.18; 95% CI, 2.81-3.60), and in the pooled sample (AOR = 2.77; 95% CI, 2.63-2.91) after adjusting for key confounders.

CONCLUSION

Pacifier use was the strongest risk factor for EBF interruption. Effective strategies to reduce pacifier use among infants younger than 6 months may further improve EBF rates in Brazil.

Effects of pacifier and taste on swallowing, esophageal motility, transit, and respiratory rhythm in human neonates

BACKGROUND

Pacifier use is widely prevalent globally despite hygienic concerns and uncertain mechanistic effects on swallowing or airway safety.

AIMS

The effects of pacifier and taste interventions on pharyngo-esophageal motility, bolus transit, and respiratory rhythms were investigated by determining the upper esophageal sphincter (UES), esophageal body, esophagogastric junction (EGJ) motor patterns and deglutition apnea, respiratory rhythm disturbances, and esophageal bolus clearance.

METHODS

Fifteen infants (six males; median gestation 31 weeks and birth weight 1.4 kg) underwent high-resolution impedance manometry at 43 (41-44) weeks postmenstrual age. Manometric, respiratory, and impedance characteristics of spontaneous swallows, pacifier-associated dry swallowing and taste (pacifier dipped in 3% sucrose)-associated swallowing were analyzed. Linear mixed and generalized estimating equation models were used. Data are presented as mean ± SEM, %, or median (IQR).

KEY RESULTS

Pharyngo-esophageal motility, respiratory, and impedance characteristics of 209 swallows were analyzed (85 spontaneous swallows, 63 pacifier- swallows, 61 taste- swallows). Basal UES and EGJ pressures decreased upon pacifier (p < 0.05) and taste interventions (p < 0.05); however, esophageal motility, respiratory rhythm, and impedance transit characteristics were similar with both interventions.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Oral stimulus with pacifier or taste interventions decreases UES and EGJ basal pressure, but has no effects on pharyngo-esophageal motility, airway interactions, or esophageal bolus transit. A decrease in central parasympathetic-cholinergic excitatory drive is likely responsible for the basal effects.

Reasons for Pacifier Use and Non-Use in African-Americans: Does Knowledge of Reduced SIDS Risk Change Parents' Minds?

To investigate African-American parental reasons for pacifier use or non-use, and whether knowledge of the association with decreased SIDS risk changes decisions about pacifier use. We conducted focus groups and individual interviews with mothers. Grounded theory methodology was used. 83 mothers participated; 72.3 % of infants used pacifiers. Reasons for pacifier use included comfort/soothing, safety/SIDS, and preference over digit-sucking. Reasons for pacifier non-use included infant refusal, fear of attachment, nipple confusion, and germs. Many parents were unaware that pacifier use reduces SIDS risk; however, most parents of non-users did not think that this knowledge would have changed their decision. Reasons included skepticism about the pacifier-SIDS link. Many reasons underlie African-American parental decisions about pacifier use. Providers should provide information about the benefits of pacifiers. Establishing for parents any plausible link between the protective mechanism of pacifiers and SIDS pathophysiology may be important in promoting pacifier use.

Breastfeeding and dummy use have a protective effect on sudden infant death syndrome

We conducted a literature review on the effect of breastfeeding and dummy (pacifier) use on sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). From 4343 abstracts, we identified 35 relevant studies on breastfeeding and SIDS, 27 on dummy use and SIDS and 59 on dummy use versus breastfeeding.

Conclusion

We found ample evidence that both breastfeeding and dummy use reduce the risk of SIDS. There has been a general reluctance to endorse dummy use in case it has a detrimental effect of breastfeeding. However, recent evidence suggests that dummy use might not be as harmful to breastfeeding as previously believed.

Oral-motor function and feeding intervention

This article presents the elements of the Oral Motor Intervention section of the Infant Care Path for Physical Therapy in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The types of physical therapy interventions presented in this path are evidence based as well as infant driven and family focused. In the context of anticipated maturation of suck-swallow-breathe coordination, the timing and methods for initiation of oral feedings and transition from gavage to full breast or bottle-feedings are presented with supporting evidence.

Effect of restricted pacifier use in breastfeeding term infants for increasing duration of breastfeeding

BACKGROUND

To successfully initiate and maintain breastfeeding for a longer duration, the World Health Organization's Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding recommends total avoidance of artificial teats or pacifiers for breastfeeding infants. Offering the pacifier instead of the breast to calm the infant may lead to less frequent episodes of breastfeeding and as a consequence may reduce breast milk production and shorten duration of breastfeeding; however, this remains unclear.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effect of unrestricted versus restricted pacifier use in healthy full-term newborns whose mothers have initiated breastfeeding and intend to exclusively breastfeed, on the duration of breastfeeding, other breastfeeding outcomes and infant health.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (14 March 2012).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials comparing unrestricted versus restricted pacifier use in healthy full-term newborns who have initiated breastfeeding regardless of whether they were born at home or in the hospital.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed the studies for inclusion, assessed risk of bias and carried out data extraction. Data were checked for accuracy.

MAIN RESULTS

We found three trials (involving 1915 babies) for inclusion in the review but have included only two trials (involving 1302 healthy full-term breastfeeding infants) in the analysis. Meta-analysis of the two combined studies showed that pacifier use in healthy breastfeeding infants had no significant effect on the proportion of infants exclusively breastfed at three months (risk ratio (RR) 0.99; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.93 to 1.05), and at four months of age (RR 0.99; 95% CI 0.92 to 1.06) and also had no effect on the proportion of infants partially breastfed at three months (RR 1.00; 95% CI 0.98 to 1.13), and at 4 months of age (RR 1.01; 95% CI 0.98 to 1.03).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Pacifier use in healthy term breastfeeding infants, started from birth or after lactation is established, did not significantly affect the prevalence or duration of exclusive and partial breastfeeding up to four months of age. However, evidence to assess the short-term breastfeeding difficulties faced by mothers and long-term effect of pacifiers on infants' health is lacking.

Prevalência de aleitamento materno e fatores associados no município de Londrina-PR

OBJETIVO: Descrever a prevalência do aleitamento materno e fatores associados no município de Londrina-PR. MÉTODOS: Estudo quantitativo, descritivo, entrevistando 770 acompanhantes de crianças menores de 12 meses, durante a campanha de vacinação antipoliomielite, em agosto de 2008. RESULTADOS: Na primeira hora, foram amamentadas 72,5% das crianças; 33,8% estavam em aleitamento materno exclusivo de zero a seis meses, no quarto mês, 53,7% e no sexto mês 7,8%; 51,5% em aleitamento materno continuado entre 9 e 12 meses. As mulheres que mais amamentaram tinham idade igual ou superior a 35 anos, escolaridade de terceiro grau, mais de um filho e estavam em licença-maternidade. CONCLUSÃO: os índices de aleitamento materno do município apresentaram evolução, porém faz-se necessário analisar as ações nos serviços de saúde para melhora desses índices.

Fatores de risco associados ao desmame em crianças até seis meses de idade no município de São Paulo

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os fatores de risco associados à ausência de aleitamento materno exclusivo (AME) em crianças <6 meses de vida na cidade de São Paulo, em 2008. MÉTODOS: Aplicou-se o questionário do Projeto Amamentação e Municípios-1998 (AMAMUNIC) a pais/responsáveis de crianças <6 meses de idade durante a Campanha Nacional de Vacinação contra Poliomielite. Cálculo da amostra por conglomerados com sorteio em dois estágios. Os fatores analisados foram idade e educação materna, peso de nascimento, sexo, tipo de parto, nascer em Hospital Amigo da Criança, presença de aleitamento materno precoce, uso de chupeta nas últimas 24 horas e mãe trabalhando fora de casa. Análise estatística por regressão logística binária com SPSS, versão 15.0, sendo significante p<0,05. RESULTADOS: Foram realizadas 724 entrevistas, das quais 275 referiram (39,1%) aleitamento materno exclusivo (Grupo I - GI) e 429 (60,9%) sem aleitamento materno exclusivo (Grupo II - GII). Houve diferenças entre os grupos quanto ao uso da chupeta nas últimas 24 horas (GI 32,3 versus GII 59,8%; p<0.001), mães trabalhando fora (GI 12,4 versus GII 24,8%; p<0.001) e idade da criança (GI 74,1±45,3 versus GII 105,8±49,5 dias; p<0,0001).Na análise multivariada, houve associação entre ausência de aleitamento materno exclusivo e uso de chupeta (OR 3,02; IC95% 2,10-4,36), mãe trabalhando fora (OR 2,11; IC95% 1,24-3,57) e idade da criança (OR 1,01; IC95% 1,01-1,02). CONCLUSÕES: O uso da chupeta nas últimas 24 horas associou-se à ausência de AME em crianças menores do que seis meses, seguido pelo trabalho materno fora de casa e pela idade da criança, que são importantes fatores a serem controlados em programas de promoção do aleitamento materno.

SIDS and other sleep-related infant deaths: expansion of recommendations for a safe infant sleeping environment

Despite a major decrease in the incidence of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) since the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released its recommendation in 1992 that infants be placed for sleep in a nonprone position, this decline has plateaued in recent years. Concurrently, other causes of sudden unexpected infant death occurring during sleep (sleep-related deaths), including suffocation, asphyxia, and entrapment, and ill-defined or unspecified causes of death have increased in incidence, particularly since the AAP published its last statement on SIDS in 2005. It has become increasingly important to address these other causes of sleep-related infant death. Many of the modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors for SIDS and suffocation are strikingly similar. The AAP, therefore, is expanding its recommendations from being only SIDS-focused to focusing on a safe sleep environment that can reduce the risk of all sleep-related infant deaths including SIDS. The recommendations described in this report include supine positioning, use of a firm sleep surface, breastfeeding, room-sharing without bed-sharing, routine immunization, consideration of a pacifier, and avoidance of soft bedding, overheating, and exposure to tobacco smoke, alcohol, and illicit drugs. The rationale for these recommendations is discussed in detail in this technical report. The recommendations are published in the accompanying "Policy Statement--Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and Other Sleep-Related Infant Deaths: Expansion of Recommendations for a Safe Infant Sleeping Environment," which is included in this issue (www.pediatrics.org/cgi/doi/10.1542/peds.2011-2220).

Combination feeding of breast milk and formula: evidence for shorter breast-feeding duration from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

OBJECTIVE

To examine combination breast milk and formula-feeding (CBFF), defined as daily breast-feeding and formula-feeding begun in the first week of life and to examine associations between CBFF and overall breast-feeding duration.

STUDY DESIGN

We used the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1999-2006, to determine the prevalence of CBFF in both univariable and multivariable analyses. We examined breast-feeding duration using Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards analyses.

RESULTS

Among 6788 children ages 0-71 months, 8% were CBFF and 55% were exclusively breast-fed during the first week of life. Factors independently associated with CBFF were Hispanic ethnicity (adjusted OR, 3.81) and black race (adjusted OR, 2.59). CBFF was associated with decreased overall breast-feeding duration in the full cohort (P < .001) but not in the Hispanic or black subgroups. CBFF and formula-feeding, when compared with 4 months of exclusive breast-feeding, were associated with an increased risk for overweight/obesity between ages 2 and 6 years.

CONCLUSIONS

In a nationally representative sample, CBFF is associated with shorter overall breast-feeding duration in white but not Hispanic or black mother-baby dyads. A significant number of US infants, though breast-fed, do not receive the health benefits of exclusive breast-feeding.

Breastfeeding and reduced risk of sudden infant death syndrome: a meta-analysis

CONTEXT

Benefits of breastfeeding include lower risk of postneonatal mortality. However, it is unclear whether breastfeeding specifically lowers sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) risk, because study results have been conflicting.

OBJECTIVE

To perform a meta-analysis to measure the association between breastfeeding and SIDS.

METHODS

We identified 288 studies with data on breastfeeding and SIDS through a Medline search (1966-2009), review articles, and meta-analyses. Twenty-four original case-control studies were identified that provided data on the relationship between breastfeeding and SIDS risk. Two teams of 2 reviewers evaluated study quality according to preset criteria; 6 studies were excluded, which resulted in 18 studies for analysis. Univariable and multivariable odds ratios were extracted. A summary odds ratio (SOR) was calculated for the odds ratios by using the fixed-effect and random-effect inverse-variance methods of meta-analysis. The Breslow-Day test for heterogeneity was performed.

RESULTS

For infants who received any amount of breast milk for any duration, the univariable SOR was 0.40 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.35-0.44), and the multivariable SOR was 0.55 (95% CI: 0.44-0.69). For any breastfeeding at 2 months of age or older, the univariable SOR was 0.38 (95% CI: 0.27-0.54). The univariable SOR for exclusive breastfeeding of any duration was 0.27 (95% CI: 0.24-0.31).

CONCLUSIONS

Breastfeeding is protective against SIDS, and this effect is stronger when breastfeeding is exclusive. The recommendation to breastfeed infants should be included with other SIDS risk-reduction messages to both reduce the risk of SIDS and promote breastfeeding for its many other infant and maternal health benefits.

Pacifier use versus no pacifier use in breastfeeding term infants for increasing duration of breastfeeding

BACKGROUND

To successfully initiate and maintain breastfeeding for a longer duration, the World Health Organization's Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding recommends total avoidance of artificial teats or pacifiers for breastfeeding infants. Offering the pacifier instead of the breast to calm the infant may lead to less frequent episodes of breastfeeding and as a consequence may reduce breast milk production and shorten duration of breastfeeding; however, this remains unclear.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effect of pacifier use versus no pacifier use in healthy full-term newborns whose mothers have initiated breastfeeding and intend to exclusively breastfeed, on the duration of breastfeeding, other breastfeeding outcomes and infant health.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (31 December 2010).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials comparing pacifier use versus no pacifier use in healthy full-term newborns who have initiated breastfeeding regardless of whether they were born at home or in the hospital.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed the studies for inclusion, assessed risk of bias and carried out data extraction.

MAIN RESULTS

We found three trials (involving 1915 babies) for inclusion in the review but have included only two trials (involving 1302 healthy full-term breastfeeding infants) in the analysis. Meta-analysis of the two combined studies showed that pacifier use in healthy breastfeeding infants had no significant effect on the proportion of infants exclusively breastfed at three months (risk ratio (RR) 1.00; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.95 to 1.06), and at four months of age (RR 0.99; 95% CI 0.92 to 1.06) and also had no effect on the proportion of infants partially breastfed at three months (RR 1.00; 95% CI 0.97 to 1.02), and at 4 months of age (RR 1.01; 95% CI 0.98 to 1.03).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Pacifier use in healthy term breastfeeding infants, started from birth or after lactation is established, did not significantly affect the prevalence or duration of exclusive and partial breastfeeding up to four months of age. However, evidence to assess the short-term breastfeeding difficulties faced by mothers and long-term effect of pacifiers on infants' health is lacking.

The pacifier debate

A variety of studies have indicated that pacifier use lowers the risk of SIDS. Many observational studies have demonstrated a negative association between pacifier use and breastfeeding duration. However, observational studies cannot be used to determine whether the pacifier is the real cause of breastfeeding cessation. Evidence for causation can be better supplied by randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Three RCTs have been conducted on the relationship between pacifiers and breastfeeding, but each study has limitations, implying that the evidence of not causal effect can be questionated. We have recently presented the results of a large RCT which demonstrated that in mothers who are successfully breastfeeding at 2 weeks, the recommendation to offer a pacifier does not modify the prevalence of exclusive and any breastfeeding at different ages or the duration of lactation. It is therefore important that lactation consultants and international agencies reexamine their staunch position to discourage the use of pacifiers on the basis of a supposed adverse effect on the success and duration of breastfeeding.