Breast-feeding initiation in women with pregestational diabetes mellitus

Maternal metabolic conditions as predictors of breastfeeding outcomes: Insights from an Australian cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Breastfeeding represents an important opportunity to optimize health outcomes for both mother and infant, particularly in the context of maternal metabolic conditions such as diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome. However, evidence suggests that women affected by these conditions breastfeed at reduced rates and durations. Our aim was to use the large, prospective, community-based Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) to conduct an in-depth exploratory analysis of breastfeeding outcomes in Australian women affected by key maternal metabolic conditions.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Data from 12 920 pregnancies to 5605 women from the 1973-1978 birth cohort of the ALSWH were examined. Univariable and multivariable regression using generalized estimating equation models were applied to assess breastfeeding initiation and duration (outcome measures) in relation to key self-reported maternal metabolic diagnoses (pre-gestational type 1 and type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, and polycystic ovary syndrome; main explanatory variables). Key sociodemographic and clinical covariates were also considered.

RESULTS

Results showed no significant association between specific maternal metabolic diagnoses (pre-gestational or gestational diabetes, or polycystic ovary syndrome) and breastfeeding outcomes. However, maternal body mass index emerged as a key predictor of suboptimal breastfeeding outcomes. Pregnancies affected by maternal obesity were associated with a 2.1-fold increase in the odds of not initiating breastfeeding, after adjusting for other key variables (95% CI 1.67 to 2.60, p < 0.01). Maternal overweight and obesity were, respectively, associated with an adjusted 1.4-fold (95% CI 1.20 to 1.55, p < 0.01) and 1.8-fold increase (95% CI 1.60 to 2.10, p < 0.01) in the odds of a breastfeeding duration less than 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal obesity, rather than any specific maternal metabolic condition, appears to be a key predictor of breastfeeding outcomes in Australian women.

Breastfeeding Intention and Breastfeeding Postpartum Outcomes between High-Risk and Low-Risk Pregnant Women: A Greek Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

This prospective cohort study, conducted from pregnancy to six months postpartum and grounded in STROBE methodology, quantitatively explores the relationship between antenatal breastfeeding intentions and subsequent breastfeeding outcomes among high-risk pregnant women, compared to a low-risk pregnancy group.

METHODS

The study was conducted in one of the largest public hospitals in Attica that provides care to pregnant women, enrolling 380 participants divided into high-risk (n = 200) and low-risk (n = 180) cohorts. Data were collected over 20 months (starting from the end of May 2020 until January 2022), spanning from pregnancy to six months postpartum, via comprehensive questionnaires.

RESULTS

Statistical analysis revealed a pronounced correlation between prenatal breastfeeding intentions and actual breastfeeding behaviors across both groups. Specifically, 81.1% of women in the high-risk group and 82.5% in the low-risk group expressed intentions of exclusively breastfeeding during pregnancy. By six months postpartum, 54.9% of the high-risk and 64.3% of the low-risk pregnancy group managed to sustain breastfeeding. Extended antenatal hospitalization emerged as a statistically significant factor (p = 0.045) negatively impacting exclusive breastfeeding intentions among high-risk pregnancies.

CONCLUSION

The findings illuminate the critical influence of antenatal intentions on breastfeeding outcomes, particularly among high-risk pregnancies. Moreover, the study identifies the detrimental effect of prolonged hospital stays on breastfeeding aspirations. These insights underscore the necessity for nuanced, supportive interventions aimed at bolstering breastfeeding rates, thereby advancing maternal and neonatal health objectives aligned with World Health Organization recommendations.

Impact of excessive gestational weight gain on exclusive breastfeeding among women with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes and obesity

BACKGROUND

Pregestational diabetes, obesity and gestational weight gain (GWG) are associated with adverse perinatal outcomes, however, the influence of excessive GWG on lactation at discharge is less known. Our aim is to evaluate the impact of excessive GWG using the LifeCycle project guidelines on exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and any BF rates at discharge among 171 women with Type 1 and 294 Type 2 diabetes and obesity who intended to BF.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

Retrospective cohort study. Obesity was defined by BMI (kg/m2) as grade 1 (30-34.9), grade 2 (35-39.9) or grade 3 (≥40). GWG was categorized as adequate, inadequate or excessive according to the 2019 LifeCycle Project guidelines. Women with Type 1 were younger (30 vs 33y), primiparous (51 vs 32%), delivered earlier (37 vs 38w) than women with Type 2 andwere different in grade 1 (40 vs 26%), grade 3 obesity (19 vs 49%) and median GWG (15 vs 11kg). Of all 465 women with Type 1 and Type 2 combined, 365 (78%) who had excessive GWG and 100 (22%) who had non-excessive GWG showed similar EBF (27 vs 25%) and any BF (72 vs 72%) rates. Regression analysis showed that after adjusting for potential confounders excessive GWG was not a predictor of EBF or any BF at discharge.

CONCLUSION

Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, obesity and excessive GWG are associated with low EBF, however, excessive GWG is not an independent predictor of low EBF or any BF at discharge.

Qualitative exploration of perceived barriers of exclusive breastfeeding among pregnant teenagers in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana

BACKGROUND

The World Health Organization endorses exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of every child's life since exclusive breastfeeding has the potential of saving thousands of infants' lives. The global exclusive breastfeeding rate among mothers is sub-optimal. This predisposes infants born to teenage mothers to all types of ailments. Therefore, this study explored the factors that inhibit the practice of exclusive breastfeeding as perceived by pregnant teenagers in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana which is an urban area.

METHODS

The study used techniques in qualitative descriptive exploration to collect data from 30 pregnant teenagers through focus group discussions. Six focus group discussions were conducted and each group was made up of five participants. Informed consent was obtained from participants who were 18 years and above as well as parents of participants below 18 years while informed assent was obtained from participants below 18 years after purposive sampling. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed and data were analysed through content analysis.

RESULTS

Two major themes and eight sub themes emerged from the data after analysis. Personal related barriers (negative emotional feelings, irrational thinking, perceived health risks to the baby and perceived self-inefficacy) and social related barriers (provider-client interaction, disapproval of exclusive breastfeeding by close relatives, unfriendly workplace policies and social myths) were the perceived factors that discouraged exclusive breastfeeding among teenage mothers.

CONCLUSION

Health professionals should be trained to provide culturally sensitive care to teenage mothers in order to promote exclusive breastfeeding. The media, religious leaders and politicians should help debunk misconceptions about breastfeeding expressed by participants in the study.

Exclusive breastfeeding among women with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus

Objective

To compare exclusive breastfeeding (BF) and BF initiation among 185 women with Type 1 and 212 women with Type 2 pregestational diabetes who intended exclusive or partial BF and delivered at ≥34 weeks of gestation.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study. At discharge, exclusive BF is direct BF or BF complemented with expressed breast milk. BF initiation is defined by exclusive or partial BF.

Results

Type 1 and Type 2 groups were similar in prior BF experience (69 vs 67%) but were different in intention to BF exclusively (92 vs 78%) and partially (8 vs 22%). Women in the Type 1 group were younger (median age 30 vs 33y), likely to be primiparous (47 vs 25%), have a lower median BMI (32 vs 36 kg/m²) and deliver by primary cesarean (37 vs 26%). Infants born to Type 1 women were more likely to be admitted to the NICU (44 vs 18%) and to have hypoglycemia (59 vs 41%). At discharge, exclusive BF among Type 1 was higher (34 vs 23%), partial BF was similar (47 vs 46%) while FF (formula feeding) was lower (19 vs 31%) than in the Type 2 group. BF initiation occurred in 81% of Type 1 and 69% of Type 2 women.

Conclusion

Intention to BF exclusively was higher in Type 1 women compared to Type 2. At discharge, exclusive BF and BF initiation were lower and FF higher in the Type 2 group highlighting the need for different strategies if lactation in this special population is to be improved.

Breastfeeding initiation among women with chronic hypertension superimposed on pregestational diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

To compare breastfeeding (BF) initiation among 317 women with chronic hypertension (CHTN) and 106 women with CHTN superimposed on pregestational diabetes (CHTN-DM) who intended exclusive or partial BF.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of women who delivered at≥34 weeks of gestation. At discharge, exclusive BF was defined by direct BF or BF complemented with expressed breast milk (EBM) while partial BF was defined by formula supplementation.

RESULTS

CHTN and CHTN-DM groups were similar in prior BF experience (42 vs 52%), intention to BF exclusively (89 vs 79%) and intention to partially BF (11 vs 21%). Women in the CHTN group were younger (31 vs 33y), more likely primiparous (44 vs 27%), and delivered vaginally (59 vs 36%) at term (85 vs 75%). Women in the CHTN-DM group had higher repeat cesarean rates (32 vs 18%), preterm birth (25 vs 15%), neonatal hypoglycemia (42 vs 14%) and NICU admission (38 vs 16%). At discharge, exclusive BF rates among CHTN was higher (48 vs 19%), while rates of partial BF (34 vs 44%) and FF (18 vs 37%) were lower than in the CHTN-DM group. BF initiation (exclusive plus partial BF) occurred in 82%of CHTN and in 63% of CHTN-DM.

CONCLUSION

Although intention to BF was similar, BF initiation rates were higher for the CHTN compared to the CHTN-DM group. Exclusive BF was low in the CHTN and even lower in the CHTN-DM group signaling the need for targeted interventions if BF initiation rates are to be improved.

A Scoping Review of Breastfeeding in Women with Chronic Diseases

Background: Approximately 10-20% of mothers have a chronic disease. Studies on breastfeeding in women with chronic disease span multiple disciplines, and these have not been collated to synthesize knowledge and identify gaps. The objective of this review was to summarize published literature on breastfeeding in women with chronic disease. Methods: We conducted a scoping review of original research and systematic reviews identified in Medline, EMBASE, and CINAHL (1990-2019) and by hand searching on women with chronic diseases reporting on at least one breastfeeding-related topic. Conference abstracts, case-studies, and studies on pregnancy-induced conditions or lactation pharmacology were excluded. Content analysis and narrative synthesis were used to analyze findings. Results: We identified 128 articles that were predominantly quantitative (80.5%), conducted in Europe or North America (65.6%), analyzed sample sizes of <200 (57.0%), and published from 2010 onward (68.8%). Diabetes (42.2%), multiple sclerosis (MS; 19.5%), and epilepsy (13.3%) were the most common diseases studied. Breastfeeding was a primary focus in approximately half (53.1%) of the articles, though definitions were infrequently reported (32.8%). The most-studied topics were breastfeeding duration/exclusivity (55.7%), reasons for feeding behavior (19.1%), and knowledge and attitudes about breastfeeding (18.3%). Less studied topics (<10% of articles each) included milk expression behaviors, breastfeeding difficulties, and feeding supports. Conclusions: Existing literature focuses primarily on diabetes or MS, and breastfeeding behaviors and outcomes. Further research examining a broader range of chronic diseases, with large sample sizes, and sufficient breastfeeding measurement detail can improve our understanding of breastfeeding disparities in this population.

Human milk imparts higher insulin concentration in infants born to women with type 2 diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

Human milk (HM) insulin plays many roles for the infant, especially for the newborn. We hypothesized HM insulin in women with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) would be higher than BMI-matched women with either gestational diabetes (GDM) or normal glucose tolerance (NGT). In T2DM, we also assessed macronutrient composition and relationships between maternal glycemic control and HM insulin.

STUDY DESIGN

HM was characterized at 2-weeks postpartum among three BMI-matched groups: T2DM (n= 12), diet-controlled GDM (n= 12), and NGT (n= 12). In T2DM, additional fasting and postprandial HM samples were collected while wearing a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), as well as fasting and 90-minute postprandial samples after a standardized meal at 1-2 weeks postpartum.

RESULTS

Fasting HM insulin was two times higher in T2DM compared to GDM and NGT (p < .001), which were not different from each other. Among T2DM, fasting (p < .001) and postprandial (p = .01) HM insulin levels were between 2 and 5× higher than plasma. Postprandial HM insulin (p = .03) and glucose (p < .001) were increased compared to fasting. Mean nocturnal glucose (p < .01) and maternal hemoglobin A1c (p < .01) positively associated with fasting HM insulin.

CONCLUSIONS

These data are the first to show HM insulin concentrations are doubled in T2DM compared to BMI-matched GDM and NGT. In HM of T2DM, insulin increases postprandially, may be concentrated relative to plasma, and is influenced by maternal glycemic control, with potential clinical implications that merit further study.

Exploring the breastfeeding knowledge level and its influencing factors of pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus

Background

Studies reveal that promoting the breastfeeding knowledge level help to improve breastfeeding behaviors. Promoting breastfeeding knowledge is a simple and economical way to increase breastfeeding rates. However, there are no studies focus on the level of breastfeeding knowledge and factors influencing the knowledge in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), which is defined as any degree of glucose tolerance impairment first diagnosed during pregnancy. Thus, the objectives of this study were to investigate the breastfeeding knowledge level of GDM pregnant women and explore factors influencing the knowledge level.

Methods

Cross-sectional survey and convenience sampling were conducted in this study. The sociodemographic characteristics, caregivers in pregnancy, knowledge source, breastfeeding status and breast status information of participants were collected. Breastfeeding Knowledge Scale was used to assess the breastfeeding knowledge level of pregnant women with GDM. Multiple linear regression was used to analyze the influence factors of breastfeeding knowledge level in this study.

Results

A total of 226 questionnaires were issued and finally 212 valid questionnaires were collected. Some misconceptions still existed (e.g. ‘breastfeeding cannot prevent your baby from being overweight’ and ‘it is advisable to breastfeed 3-4 times per day within 2-3 days after delivery’), although women with GDM had a good score of breastfeeding knowledge (mean score: 103.5 ± 10.4). Multiple linear regression analysis found that gestational age, family per capita monthly income, educational level, knowledge source were the independent protective factors for breastfeeding knowledge and minority nationality was the independent risk factor. The educational level had the greatest influence on the breastfeeding knowledge level of GDM pregnant women (β = 0.210, t = 2.978, P = 0.003).

Conclusion

GDM pregnant women with insufficient gestational age, low educational level, low family per capita monthly income and single access to knowledge should be included in the focus of health education on breastfeeding. In-depth and systematic health education should be conducted for pregnant women with GDM to improve their breastfeeding rate.

Effects of breastfeeding education based on the self-efficacy theory on women with gestational diabetes mellitus: A CONSORT-compliant randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) face big challenges of breastfeeding. In order to improve breastfeeding self-efficacy and breastfeeding rate of them, we formulated perinatal individualized interventions based on self-efficacy theory and conducted a randomized controlled trial to verify the effectiveness.

METHODS

We conducted a randomized controlled trial. The perinatal individualized interventions based on the self-efficacy theory including 4 phases were led by the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Women allocated to the control group received usual care for lactation support during the antenatal and postnatal period. Data collection occurred at admission, discharge, 6 weeks postpartum, 4 months postpartum, and 6 months postpartum.

RESULTS

We enrolled 226 women with GDM, 113 in the intervention group and 113 in the control group. The scores of breastfeeding self-efficacy in the intervention group were significantly higher than those in the control group at discharge, at 6 weeks, 4 months, and 6 months postpartum (P < .05). We found higher rates of exclusive and any breastfeeding in the intervention group at discharge (Exclusive: 25.2% vs 13.5%, P < .05; Any: 94.4% vs 89.4%, P > .05), at 6 weeks postpartum (Exclusive: 75.5% vs 62.5%, P < .05; Any: 100.0% vs 96.2%, P > .05), at 4 months postpartum (Exclusive: 68.9% vs 43.3%, P < .05; Any: 94.3% vs 83.7%, P < .05) and at 6 months postpartum (Exclusive: 55.8% vs 36.9%, P < .05; Any: 88.5% vs 64.1%, P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Perinatal individualized breastfeeding education based on the self-efficacy theory had positive effects on breastfeeding self-efficacy and breastfeeding rate of women with GDM.

Prior breastfeeding experience and infant feeding at discharge among women with pregestational diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

To compare multiparous women with pregestational diabetes mellitus (PGDM) with and without prior breastfeeding (BF) experience and to ascertain their infants' feeding type during hospitalization and at discharge.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of 304 women with PGDM who delivered at ≥34 weeks gestational age (GA). Prior BF experience and infant feeding preference was declared prenatally. At discharge, BF was defined as exclusive or partial.

RESULTS

BF experience and no experience groups were similar in diabetes type 1 and 2, race and number of pregnancies. Women with no experience had more spontaneous abortions (35 vs 27%), fewer term deliveries (51 vs 61%) and living children (median 1 vs 2). In the current pregnancy, mode of delivery: vaginal (36 & 37%), cesarean (64 & 63%), birthweight (3592 & 3515 g), GA (38 & 37 w), NICU admission (14 & 11%) and hypoglycemia (44 & 43%) were similar. Women with experience intended to BF (79 vs 46%), their infants' first feeding was BF (64 vs 36%) and had lactation consults (96 vs 63%) more often than those without experience. At discharge, women with BF experience were different in rate of exclusive BF (33 vs 11%), partial BF (48 vs 25%) and formula feeding (19 vs 64%).

CONCLUSION

Prior BF experience leads to better BF initiation rates while the absence of BF experience adds a risk for BF initiation failure. A detailed BF history could provide insight into obstacles that lead to unsuccessful BF experiences and may help define appropriate preventive or corrective strategies.

Breastfeeding Initiation as Related to the Interaction of Race/Ethnicity and Maternal Diabetes

Introduction: The health benefits of breastfeeding for both the mother and her offspring are well established, and breastfeeding may be especially important for mitigating negative health effects of pregnancy complicated by diabetes. Objective: This study sought to examine the association between race/ethnicity, maternal diabetes, and breastfeeding initiation in South Carolina (SC). Materials and Methods: Our study population is comprised of all live, singleton, full-term births in SC delivered January 2004 to December 2016 (292,468 non-Hispanic Whites, 173,158 non-Hispanic Blacks, and 52,174 Hispanics). Generalized estimating equations and an interaction term between race/ethnicity and maternal diabetes status were used to estimate the race/ethnic-specific odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) that a mother with diabetes versus without diabetes initiated breastfeeding. Models were adjusted for maternal and infant sociodemographics (Model 1), additionally for clinical variables and birth outcomes (Model 2), and also for maternal prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) (Model 3). Results: We found statistically significant differences in breastfeeding initiation by race/ethnicity and diabetes status in Model 1. These associations were attenuated and lost significance upon additional adjustment. Non-Hispanic Black mothers with gestational diabetes were significantly more likely to initiate breastfeeding than nondiabetic non-Hispanic Black mothers, even after adjustment for prepregnancy BMI (OR: 1.07 [95% CI 1.02-1.12]). Conclusion: This large, population-based study of all live, singleton, full-term births in SC improves our understanding of how race/ethnicity and maternal metabolic disorders impact breastfeeding initiation, and may inform future hospital-based breastfeeding interventions in populations with the most need.

Prepregnancy Diabetes and Breastfeeding Cessation Among Black Women in the United States

Background: The incidence of diabetes is rising, and with it, the number of pregnancies affected by diabetes. U.S. black women have a disproportionately high prevalence of diabetes and lower rates of breastfeeding. Objective: The objective of this study was to quantify the relationship between diabetes before pregnancy and breastfeeding duration among black women in the United States. Materials and Methods: We analyzed women from the Black Women's Health Study (N = 59,000) to assess the relationship between prepregnancy diabetes and time to breastfeeding cessation occurring up to 24 months postdelivery using Kaplan-Meier survival curves, log rank tests, and Cox proportional hazards models. The study population included primiparous women with births between 1995 and 2009 (N = 3,404). Obesity, hypertension before pregnancy, and family history of diabetes were examined for effect modification. Results: Survival curves demonstrated a markedly reduced duration of breastfeeding in women who had been diagnosed with prepregnancy diabetes (p < 0.01). The hazard ratio for breastfeeding cessation for women with prepregnancy diabetes was 1.5 (95% confidence interval 1.1-2.0) compared with women without prepregnancy diabetes after control for age, body mass index (BMI) at age 18, prepregnancy BMI, other metabolic factors, demographics, and health behaviors. Conclusions: Our results suggest that prepregnancy diabetes is a strong predictor of curtailed breastfeeding duration, even after control for BMI. This underscores the need for targeted lactation support for diabetic women.

In-hospital formula supplementation and breastfeeding initiation in infants born to women with pregestational diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

To ascertain the rate of in-hospital supplementation as it relates to early breastfeeding (BF) and early formula feeding (FF) and its effects on BF (exclusive and partial) at the time of discharge for infants born to women with pregestational diabetes mellitus (PGDM).

METHODS

Retrospective cohort investigation of 282 women with PGDM who intended to BF and their asymptomatic infants admitted to the newborn nursery for blood glucose monitoring and routine care. Early feeding was defined by the initial feeding if given within four hours of birth.

RESULTS

Of the 282 mother-infant dyads, for 134 (48%) early feeding was BF and for 148 (52%) early feeding was FF. Times from birth to BF and FF (median 1 hr, 0.3-6) were similar, while the time to first BF for those who FF and supplemented was longer (median 6 hr., 1-24). Ninety-seven infants (72%) who first BF also supplemented. Of these, 22 (23%) BF exclusively, 67 (69%) BF partially and 8 (8%) FF at discharge. One hundred seventeen (79%) who first FF also supplemented. Of these, 21 (18%) BF exclusively, 76 (65%) BF partially and 20 (17%) FF at discharge.

CONCLUSION

Regardless of the type of first feeding, the majority of infants born to women with PGDM require supplementation. Even when medically indicated, in-hospital supplementation is an obstacle, albeit not absolute, to exclusive BF at discharge. Parents should be reminded that occasional supplementation should not deter resumption and continuation of BF.

Decreasing NICU admissions of asymptomatic infants of women with pregestational diabetes mellitus improves breastfeeding initiation rates

BACKGROUND

Asymptomatic infants born to women with pregestational diabetes mellitus (PGDM) are usually admitted to the well baby nursery (WBN) while those who are symptomatic or in need of specialized care are admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

OBJECTIVE

To determine if changes in the NICU admission rate of asymptomatic infants born to women with PGDM during two different epochs affected breastfeeding (BF) initiation rates.

DESIGN/METHODS

Retrospective cohort investigation of 386 women with PGDM and their infants who delivered in 2008-11 (epoch 1) and 457 who delivered in 2013-16 (epoch 2) at a single institution.

RESULTS

NICU admissions: Comparison between epoch 1 and epoch 2 showed a decrease in the number of admissions from 243 (63%) to 175 (38%) *(chi square *p < 0.05). Respiratory distress (39 and 43%) and prematurity (28 and 23%) as admission diagnoses remained unchanged. Admissions for prevention of hypoglycemia declined (32% to 21%)*. At discharge from the NICU, exclusive BF (12 to 19%)* and any BF increased (41 to 55%)* while formula feeding (FF) decreased (59 to 45%)*. Admission to the NICU remained a strong predictor of BF initiation failure (a OR 0.6, 95% , CI 0.4-0.9, p 0.005).WBN admissions: Comparison between epoch 1 and epoch 2 showed an increase in the number of admissions from 143 (37%) to 282 (62%)*. The incidence of hypoglycemia (31% and 38%) and its correction with oral feedings (76% and 71%) remained unchanged. At discharge from the WBN, exclusive BF (15 to 27%)* and any BF (52 to 62%)* increased while FF decreased (48 to 38%)*.

CONCLUSIONS

A decrease in the number of NICU admissions of asymptomatic infants born to women with PGDM is associated with improvements in BF initiation rates.

Association Between Gestational Diabetes and Incident Maternal CKD: The Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with increased risk for diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. We evaluated whether GDM is associated with incident chronic kidney disease (CKD), controlling for prepregnancy risk factors for both conditions.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective cohort.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

Of 2,747 women (aged 18-30 years) enrolled in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study in 1985 to 86, we studied 820 who were nulliparous at enrollment, delivered at least 1 pregnancy longer than 20 weeks' gestation, and had kidney function measurements during 25 years of follow-up.

PREDICTOR

GDM was self-reported by women for each pregnancy.

OUTCOMES

CKD was defined as the development of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)<60mL/min/1.73m2 or urine albumin-creatinine ratio ≥ 25mg/g at any one CARDIA examination in years 10, 15, 20, or 25.

MEASUREMENTS

HRs for developing CKD were estimated for women who developed GDM versus women without GDM using complementary log-log models, adjusting for prepregnancy age, systolic blood pressure, dyslipidemia, body mass index, smoking, education, eGFR, fasting glucose concentration, physical activity level (all measured at the CARDIA examination before the first pregnancy), race, and family history of diabetes. We explored for an interaction between race and GDM.

RESULTS

During a mean follow-up of 20.8 years, 105 of 820 (12.8%) women developed CKD, predominantly increased urine albumin excretion (98 albuminuria only, 4 decreased eGFR only, and 3 both). There was evidence of a GDM-race interaction on CKD risk (P=0.06). Among black women, the adjusted HR for CKD was 1.96 (95% CI, 1.04-3.67) in GDM compared with those without GDM. Among white women, the HR was 0.65 (95% CI, 0.23-1.83).

LIMITATIONS

Albuminuria was assessed by single untimed measurements of urine albumin and creatinine.

CONCLUSIONS

GDM is associated with the subsequent development of albuminuria among black women in CARDIA.

Early feeding, hypoglycemia and breastfeeding initiation in infants born to women with pregestational diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effects of early breastfeeding (eBF) or early formula feeding (eFF) on hypoglycemia and on BF initiation in infants born to women with pregestational diabetes mellitus (PGDM) who intended to BF.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort investigation of 554 women with PGDM and their infants (IDMs) who delivered during 2008-2016. The first feeding (BF or FF) was considered early if given within 4 hours from birth.

RESULTS

282 (51%) IDMs were admitted to the Well Baby Nursery. Of the 134 IDMs whose early feeding was BF, hypoglycemia affected 30% which was corrected with oral feedings in 78% of the cases. At discharge, 49% BF exclusively while 45% BF partially. Of the 148 IDMs whose early feeding was FF, hypoglycemia affected 40% which was corrected with oral feedings in 69% of the cases. At discharge, 14% BF exclusively while 48% BF partially. There were 272 (49%) IDMs admitted to the NICU. Their early feeding was BF (14%) and FF (86%). Hypoglycemia developed in 50% and 43% of these groups, respectively. Benefits of early feedings on hypoglycemia were masked by the routine use of IV dextrose infusions. At discharge, early BF led to exclusive BF in 45% and partial BF in 50% of the cases. Early FF led to exclusive BF in 17% and partial BF in 42% of the cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Early and continued feeding (BF preferably or FF if BF is not feasible) should be the first line of treatment for hypoglycemia. Early BF is paramount for BF initiation. Early FF is an obstacle, albeit not absolute, to BF initiation, thus it should not deter continued efforts to start or resume BF.

Neonatal outcomes of macrosomic infants of diabetic and non-diabetic mothers

OBJECTIVE

To compare neonatal outcomes (including breastfeeding (BF) initiation) of 170 macrosomic IDM with that of 739 macrosomic nIDM.

DESIGN/METHODS

Retrospective cohort investigation of all macrosomic infants born consecutively over a four-year period (2008-2011). Macrosomic (birth weight ≥4000 g) IDM included 100 infants whose mothers had gestational diabetes and 70 whose mothers had pregestational diabetes.

RESULTS

IDM were more likely to be delivered by cesarean to obese women while nIDM were more likely to be delivered vaginally to younger women with a higher level of education. Ethnic distribution (60% white, 20% black, 10% Hispanic and 10% Asian or African) was similar in each group. Forty-nine percent of IDM and 7% of nIDM required NICU admission. Respiratory disorders (mainly TTNB) affected 21% of IDM and 3% of nIDM while hypoglycemia was observed in 36% of IDM and 15% of nIDM. Of the 35 IDM delivered vaginally, 10 were complicated by shoulder dystocia without injury. Conversely, 70 of the 458 nIDM delivered vaginally experienced shoulder dystocia that resulted in 6 limb fractures and 3 brachial plexus injuries. On arrival to labor and delivery, 75% of all women intended to BF; however, at the time of discharge, 65% of women with diabetes and 92% of those without diabetes who intended to BF had initiated BF.

CONCLUSIONS

Both macrosomic IDM and macrosomic nIDM are at risk for significant morbidities. Macrosomic IDM carry a higher risk for NICU admissions, leading to maternal-infant separation, and lower BF initiation rates.

Association between History of Gestational Diabetes and Exclusive Breastfeeding at Hospital Discharge

BACKGROUND

Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended in the first 6 months of life, especially for infants born to women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Yet, women with a history of GDM face challenges with exclusive breastfeeding in the early postpartum period, a critical period for setting up longer term breastfeeding success. Minimal research has been published on associated risk factors for not exclusively breastfeeding.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to examine the association between GDM and exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis including 2038 women who participated in the population-based Infant Feeding Practices Study II between May 2005 and June 2007.

RESULTS

Gestational diabetes mellitus prevalence was 5.8%. The crude prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge was 62.2% among women with GDM compared to 75.4% of women without GDM (P < .01). After adjusting for sociodemographic, behavioral, and anthropometric factors, the odds of exclusive breastfeeding were lower among women with GDM compared to women without diabetes (odds ratio = 0.59; 95% confidence interval, 0.39-0.92). Furthermore, women who had gestational weight gain (GWG) below the Institute of Medicine guidelines had lower odds of exclusive breastfeeding compared to women who had normal GWG (odds ratio = 0.62; 95% confidence interval, 0.45-0.85).

CONCLUSION

Women with GDM history and women with inadequate GWG may need additional education to promote exclusive breastfeeding during maternal hospital stay. It is important for health care providers to assess both factors when providing education on exclusive breastfeeding and to support these women's breastfeeding efforts in the early postpartum period to maximize potential for longer term breastfeeding success.

A Case Control Study of Diabetes During Pregnancy and Low Milk Supply

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine whether a history of diabetes during pregnancy, as a marker of perinatal glucose intolerance, increases the odds of a diagnosis of low milk supply at a Breastfeeding Medicine Clinic (BMC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A case-control analysis was conducted of electronic medical records for BMC visits <90 days postpartum. Diabetes was defined as documentation of gestational, type 1, or type 2 diabetes. Cases were defined as those with a low milk supply diagnosis but without latch or nipple problems, and controls as those with latch or nipple problems but without low milk supply. A sensitivity analysis was then conducted by expanding cases to include all low milk supply diagnoses, and controls to include any diagnoses except low milk supply. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for diabetes were calculated in cases versus controls, including adjustment for cesarean delivery, preterm birth, polycystic ovary syndrome, hypothyroidism, and infertility.

RESULTS

In the primary analysis, 14.9% of 175 cases versus 6.2% of 226 controls had a history of diabetes during pregnancy (OR 2.6 [95% CI 1.3-5.2]; adjusted OR 2.4 [95% CI 1.2-4.9]). In the sensitivity analysis, 14.9% of 249 cases versus 6.1% of 312 controls had diabetes in pregnancy (adjusted OR 2.4 [95% CI 1.4-4.3]).

CONCLUSIONS

Women diagnosed with low milk supply were significantly more likely to have had diabetes in pregnancy compared with women with latch or nipple problems and, more generally, compared with women with any other lactation difficulty. Further research is needed to elucidate how maternal glucose intolerance may impede lactation.

Does Insulin Explain the Relation between Maternal Obesity and Poor Lactation Outcomes? An Overview of the Literature

It is well established that obese women are at increased risk of delayed lactogenesis and short breastfeeding duration, but the underlying causal contributors remain unclear. This review summarizes the literature examining the role of insulin in lactation outcomes. Maternal obesity is a strong risk factor for insulin resistance and prediabetes, but until recently a direct role for insulin in milk production had not been elucidated. Over the past 6 y, studies in both animal models and humans have shown insulin-sensitive gene expression to be dramatically upregulated specifically during the lactation cycle. Insulin is now considered to play a direct role in lactation, including essential roles in secretory differentiation, secretory activation, and mature milk production. At the same time, emerging clinical research suggests an important association between suboptimal glucose tolerance and lactation difficulty. To develop effective interventions to support lactation success in obese women further research is needed to identify how, when, and for whom maternal insulin secretion and sensitivity affect lactation ability.

Failure to initiate breastfeeding among high risk obstetrical patients who intended to breastfeed

BACKGROUND

In the US, at the time of discharge from the hospital, 79% of women had initiated breastfeeding. Intention to breastfeed is a strong predictor of breastfeeding initiation; however, we reported initiation failure in 45% of women with pregestational diabetes who intended to breastfeed. Information regarding intention and initiation among women with other high risk obstetrical conditions (HROB) remains scarce.

OBJECTIVE

To ascertain demographic and clinical factors associated with breastfeeding initiation failure among women with HROB conditions who intended to breastfeed.

METHODS

The study population is comprised of 89 women with diabetes (DM), 57 who were receiving treatment for substance abuse (SA), 51 women diagnosed with miscellaneous (MISC) conditions and 32 with history of preterm labor/delivery (PTL/D). Intention to exclusively breastfeed or in combination with formula (breastfed/FF) was ascertained prenatally. Breastfeeding was considered initiated if at discharge ≥50% of their infant feedings were maternal milk. Statistics include chi-square, Wilcoxon's and logistic regression (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

Of all women, 59% initiated any breastfeeding. Intention to breastfeed/FF, lack of mother-infant contact during the first hour following birth and limited lactation consultation were predictive of initiation failure. The odds of initiation failure were 2.3 times higher among women who wished to breastfeed/FF as compared to those who wished to exclusively breastfeed. Women from the SA group had lower rates of initiation failure than the other three HROB groups.

CONCLUSION

Intention to breastfeed among women with diverse HROB conditions is similar to that of the general population; however, initiation rates are disappointingly low. Intention to exclusively breastfeed results in fewer initiation failures. Prenatal intention to combine breast and formula feeding characterize women who may benefit from specific educational programs.

Breastfeeding initiation among macrosomic infants born to obese nondiabetic mothers

BACKGROUND

Women who are overweight or obese are at risk for maternal and neonatal medical complications, including macrosomia (birth weight ≥4,000 g), that may contribute to breastfeeding initiation failure. This study examined factors associated with breastfeeding initiation among obese women without diabetes who delivered macrosomic infants.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted from 2008 to 2011. Based on prepregnancy body mass index (in kg/m(2)), women were classified as normal (18-24.9), overweight (25-29.9), obese (30-34.9), very obese (35-39.9), and extremely obese (≥40). Intention to breastfeed was ascertained prenatally, and breastfeeding initiation was defined if at discharge ≥50% of the infant feedings were breastmilk.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine percent of the population was overweight, 23% obese, 14% very obese, and 12% extremely obese. Intention to breastfeed was similar among normal-weight, overweight, obese, and very obese women but was significantly lower for those who were extremely obese (p<0.05). Breastfeeding initiation was 75% for normal-weight, 72% for overweight, 71% for obese, 66% for very obese, and 53% for extremely obese women (p<0.05). Among women who intended to breastfeed, breastfeeding initiation was uniformly high: 94% for normal-weight, 93% for overweight, 95% for obese, 92% for very obese, and 87% for extremely obese women.

CONCLUSIONS

Intention to breastfeed as well as breastfeeding initiation was significantly lower for extremely obese women. Lack of intention to breastfeed declared during the antepartum period by extremely obese women highlights a need as well as an opportunity for intervention.

Factors associated with breastfeeding at discharge differ by maternal diabetes type

AIMS

To investigate the factors associated with breastfeeding initiation in mothers with gestational and prepregnancy diabetes mellitus vs those without diabetes.

METHODS

Ohio Vital Statistics birth certificate data from 2006 to 2011 on all singleton births to women resident in Ohio aged 16-44 years were used to determine the factors associated with breastfeeding initiation by diabetes status. Logistic regression models stratified by diabetes status were used to analyse the association of breastfeeding with characteristics of the mother and infant.

RESULTS

Among the 792 730 infants born in Ohio between 2006 and 2011 used in the analysis, 5.3% were born to mothers with gestational diabetes and 0.8% to mothers with prepregnancy diabetes. Although some associations of breastfeeding initiation with maternal and infant characteristics were similar across all diabetes statuses, they differed by maternal prepregnancy weight, age and race, prenatal care, county type and infant's gestational age. Unlike mothers without diabetes, overweight mothers with gestational diabetes were equally likely to breastfeed compared with those of normal weight (odds ratio 0.95; 95% CI 0.87, 1.03) and mothers in rural (odds ratio 1.0; 95% CI 0.9, 1.1) and metropolitan counties (OR 1.1; 95% CI 1.0, 1.1) were equally likely to breastfeed compared with those in suburban counties. Although significantly associated with breastfeeding initiation among mothers without diabetes, the mother's prepregnancy weight status and age, county type and prenatal care were not found to be significant factors among mothers with prepregnancy diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Further research is needed to understand how these factors influence the initiation of breastfeeding decisions made by mothers.

Differences in breast-feeding initiation and continuation by maternal diabetes status

Objective

To examine (i) the prevalence of and associations between breast-feeding initiation and continuation by maternal diabetes status and (ii) the reasons for not initiating and/or continuing breast-feeding by maternal diabetes status.

Design

Secondary data analyses of a population-based cross-sectional study were conducting using data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS), 2009–2011. Multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate the associations between breast-feeding initiation and continuation by diabetes status.

Setting

Thirty states and New York City, USA.

Subjects

Mothers of recently live-born infants, selected by birth certificate sampling.

Results

Among 72755 women, 8·8 % had gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and 1·7 % had pregestational diabetes mellitus (PDM). Breast-feeding initiation was similar among GDM and no diabetes mellitus (NDM) women (80·8 % v. 82·2 %, respectively, P=0·2), but continuation was lower among GDM (65·7 % v. 68·8 %, respectively, P=0·01). PDM women had lower initiation and continuation compared with NDM (78·2 %, P=0·03 and 60·4 %, P<0·01, respectively). In adjusted analyses, current smoking status was a significant effect modifier for initiation, but not for continuation.

Conclusions

Differences in breast-feeding initiation and continuation prevalence by maternal diabetes status may reflect differences in prenatal education, indicating the need for increased efforts among PDM women. Additionally, non-smoking women with PDM or GDM would benefit from additional breast-feeding education.

Neonatal outcomes following in utero exposure to buprenorphine/naloxone or methadone

Objectives:

To study neonatal outcomes following buprenorphine/naloxone and methadone exposure during pregnancy.

Methods:

This study is a retrospective review of clinical and demographic information of 58 infants whose mothers were treated with buprenorphine/naloxone and 92 infants whose mothers were treated with methadone for opioid dependence during pregnancy.

Results:

Gestational age, birth weight, prematurity, admission to neonatal intensive care unit, and length of stay were similar between both groups of infants. Neonatal abstinence syndrome occurred less frequently among infants of mothers treated with buprenorphine/naloxone than those treated with methadone (64% and 80%, respectively, p = 0.03). All infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome were treated postnatally with methadone. There was a trend toward shorter duration of treatment and lower cumulative dosages of methadone among the buprenorphine/naloxone–exposed infants.

Conclusions:

No apparent significant adverse neonatal outcomes were detected following treatment with either maintenance medication; however, further prospective research is necessary to examine the safety and efficacy of buprenorphine/naloxone in pregnancy and its effects on the neonate.

Delivery room triage of large for gestational age infants of diabetic mothers

Objective:

To review our 4-year experience (2008–2011) with delivery room triage of large for gestational age infants of diabetic mothers.

Design/Methods:

Retrospective cohort investigation of 311 large for gestational age infants of diabetic mothers (White’s Class A1 (77), A2 (87), B (77), and C-R (70)).

Results:

Of 311 women, 31% delivered at 34–36 weeks gestational age and 69% at term. While 70% were delivered by cesarean, 30% were vaginal deliveries. A total of 160 asymptomatic infants were triaged from the delivery room to the well baby nursery. Of these, 55 (34%) developed hypoglycemia. In 43 cases, the hypoglycemia was corrected by early feedings; in the remaining 12, intravenous dextrose treatment was required. A total of 151 infants were triaged from the delivery room to the neonatal intensive care unit. Admission diagnoses included respiratory distress (51%), prevention of hypoglycemia (27%), prematurity (21%), and asphyxia (1%). Hypoglycemia affected 66 (44%) of all neonatal intensive care unit infants.

Conclusion:

Safe triage of asymptomatic large for gestational age infants of diabetic mothers from the delivery room to well baby nursery can be accomplished in the majority of cases. Those infants in need of specialized care can be accurately identified and effectively treated in the neonatal intensive care unit setting.

Early feeding and neonatal hypoglycemia in infants of diabetic mothers

Objectives:

To examine the effects of early formula feeding or breast-feeding on hypoglycemia in infants born to 303 A1-A2 and 88 Class B-RF diabetics.

Methods:

Infants with hypoglycemia (blood glucose < 40 mg/dL) were breast-fed or formula-fed, and those with recurrences were given intravenous dextrose.

Results:

Of 293 infants admitted to the well-baby nursery, 87 (30%) had hypoglycemia, corrected by early feeding in 75 (86%), while 12 (14%) required intravenous dextrose. In all, 98 infants were admitted to the newborn intensive care unit for respiratory distress (40%), prematurity (33%) or prevention of hypoglycemia (27%). Although all newborn intensive care unit patients received intravenous dextrose, 22 (22%) had hypoglycemia. Of 109 hypoglycemia episodes, 89 (82%) were single low occurrences. At discharge, 56% of well-baby nursery and 43% of newborn intensive care unit infants initiated breast-feeding.

Conclusions:

Hypoglycemia among infants of diabetic mothers can be corrected by early breast-feeding or formula feeding.