Antenatal breast expression in women with diabetes: outcomes from a retrospective cohort study

Breastfeeding outcomes at 3 months for women with diabetes in pregnancy: Findings from the Diabetes and Antenatal Milk Expressing randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Women with diabetes in pregnancy have decreased exclusivity and duration of breastfeeding compared with women without diabetes, and their infants are at increased risk of hypoglycemia. Clinicians often suggest pregnant women with diabetes to express breastmilk, and studies have reported increased breastfeeding exclusivity in the early postnatal period for patients who have expressed. Little is known about longer term outcomes. We investigated whether advising low-risk women with diabetes in pregnancy to express beginning at 36 weeks of pregnancy increased exclusivity and maintenance of breastfeeding at 3 months.

METHODS

We conducted a multicenter, two-group, randomized controlled trial at six hospitals in Melbourne, Australia, between 2011 and 2015. Women were randomized to either standard maternity care or advised to hand express for 10 min twice daily, in addition to standard care. Women were telephoned at 12-13 weeks postpartum and asked a series of questions about feeding their baby, perceptions of their milk supply, and other health outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 631 women in the study, data for 570 (90%) were analyzed at 12-13 weeks. After adjustment, we found no evidence that women allocated to antenatal expressing were more likely to be giving only breastmilk (aRR 1.07 [95% CI 0.92-1.22]) or any breastmilk (aRR 0.99 [95% CI 0.92-1.06]) at 12-13 weeks postpartum compared with women in the standard care group.

CONCLUSION

While the practice of antenatal expression for low-risk women with diabetes during pregnancy is promising for increasing exclusivity of breastmilk feeding in hospital, at 12-13 weeks, there was no association with breastfeeding outcomes.

Human Milk Oligosaccharides in Antenatal Colostrum: A Case Study

Introduction/Background: Some women produce antenatal colostrum during pregnancy and feed it to their baby after birth. However, the composition of antenatal colostrum and how it compares to postnatal colostrum and mature milk are not well described. In fact, there are currently no data on the composition of antenatal colostrum when it comes to human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), the third most abundant solid human milk component after lactose and lipids. Case Presentation: We report a case of a single healthy donor who collected antenatal colostrum and urine from 19 weeks of gestation all the way to mature milk at 3 months postpartum. We analyzed all samples for HMO composition using high-performance liquid chromatography and for lactose concentrations using an enzymatic assay. Results: The entire spectrum of HMOs typical of a nonsecretor was already present in antenatal colostrum at 19 weeks gestation with a total concentration of 7.5 mg/mL. The HMO concentration further increased to over 12.5 mg/mL at 30 weeks gestation and then declined throughout the remainder of pregnancy and continued to decline in the postpartum period with concentrations of less than 5 mg/mL at 12 weeks postpartum. Concentrations of some of the individual HMOs as well as lactose changed significantly at the time of birth. HMO composition in antenatal colostrum was different in time-matched urine samples. Conclusion: Measuring HMOs in maternal urine does not fully capture the composition of HMOs in antenatal colostrum. Feeding antenatal colostrum to the newborn baby provides the entire set of different HMOs at high concentrations.

Oral dextrose gel to prevent hypoglycaemia in at-risk neonates

BACKGROUND

Neonatal hypoglycaemia is a common condition that can be associated with brain injury. Current practice usually includes early identification of at-risk infants (e.g. infants of diabetic mothers; preterm, small- or large-for-gestational-age infants), and prophylactic measures are advised. However, these measures often involve use of formula milk or admission to the neonatal unit. Dextrose gel is non-invasive, inexpensive and effective for treatment of neonatal hypoglycaemia. Prophylactic dextrose gel can reduce the incidence of neonatal hypoglycaemia, thus potentially reducing separation of mother and baby and supporting breastfeeding, as well as preventing brain injury. This is an update of a previous Cochrane Review published in 2021.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and safety of oral dextrose gel in preventing hypoglycaemia before first hospital discharge and reducing long-term neurodevelopmental impairment in newborn infants at risk of hypoglycaemia.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase and Epistemonikos in April 2023. We also searched clinical trials databases and the reference lists of retrieved articles.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs comparing oral dextrose gel versus placebo, no intervention, or other therapies for the prevention of neonatal hypoglycaemia. We included newborn infants at risk of hypoglycaemia, including infants of mothers with diabetes (all types), high or low birthweight, and born preterm (< 37 weeks), age from birth to 24 hours, who had not yet been diagnosed with hypoglycaemia.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias. We contacted investigators to obtain additional information. We used fixed-effect meta-analyses. We used the GRADE approach to assess the certainty of evidence.

MAIN RESULTS

We included two studies conducted in high-income countries comparing oral dextrose gel versus placebo in 2548 infants at risk of neonatal hypoglycaemia. Both of these studies were included in the previous version of this review, but new follow-up data were available for both. We judged these two studies to be at low risk of bias in 13/14 domains, and that the evidence for most outcomes was of moderate certainty. Meta-analysis of the two studies showed that oral dextrose gel reduces the risk of hypoglycaemia (risk ratio (RR) 0.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.79 to 0.95; risk difference (RD) -0.06, 95% CI -0.10 to -0.02; 2548 infants; high-certainty evidence). Evidence from two studies showed that there may be little to no difference in the risk of major neurological disability at two years of age after oral dextrose gel (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.59 to 1.68; 1554 children; low-certainty evidence). Meta-analysis of the two studies showed that oral dextrose gel probably reduces the risk of receipt of treatment for hypoglycaemia during initial hospital stay (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.00; 2548 infants; moderate-certainty evidence) but probably makes little or no difference to the risk of receipt of intravenous treatment for hypoglycaemia (RR 1.01, 0.68 to 1.49; 2548 infants; moderate-certainty evidence). Oral dextrose gel may have little or no effect on the risk of separation from the mother for treatment of hypoglycaemia (RR 1.12, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.55; two studies, 2548 infants; low-certainty evidence). There is probably little or no difference in the risk of adverse effects in infants who receive oral dextrose gel compared to placebo gel (RR 1.22, 95% CI 0.64 to 2.33; two studies, 2510 infants; moderate-certainty evidence), but there are no studies comparing oral dextrose with other comparators such as no intervention or other therapies. No data were available on exclusive breastfeeding after discharge.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Prophylactic oral dextrose gel reduces the risk of neonatal hypoglycaemia in at-risk infants and probably reduces the risk of treatment for hypoglycaemia without adverse effects. It may make little to no difference to the risk of major neurological disability at two years, but the confidence intervals include the possibility of substantial benefit or harm. Evidence at six to seven years is limited to a single small study. In view of its limited short-term benefits, prophylactic oral dextrose gel should not be incorporated into routine practice until additional information is available about the balance of risks and harms for later neurological disability. Additional large follow-up studies at two years of age or older are required. Future research should also be undertaken in other high-income countries, low- and middle-income countries, preterm infants, using other dextrose gel preparations, and using comparators other than placebo gel. There are three studies awaiting classification and one ongoing study which may alter the conclusions of the review when published.

Expressed breast milk and maternal expression of breast milk for the prevention and treatment of neonatal hypoglycemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Worldwide, many guidelines recommend the use of expressed breast milk (EBM) and maternal expression of breast milk for the prevention and treatment of neonatal hypoglycemia. However, the impact of both practices on neonatal hypoglycemia is unclear. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of EBM and maternal expression of breast milk in preventing and treating neonatal hypoglycemia.

METHODS

We registered our review in PROSPERO (CRD42022328072). We systematically reviewed five databases and four clinical trial registries to identify randomized controlled trials (RCT), non-randomized studies of intervention (NRSI), and cohort studies that compared infants who received EBM to infants who did not, and similar study designs that compared infants whose mothers expressed breast milk to infants whose mothers did not. Two independent reviewers carried out screening, data extraction, and quality assessment. The quality of included RCT, NRSI, and cohort studies were respectively assessed with the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2, Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies-of Interventions, and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale tools. Results from studies on EBM were synthesized separately from those on maternal expression of breast milk. Meta-analysis was undertaken using Revman 5.4. and fixed-effect models.

RESULTS

None of the ten included studies was specifically designed to determine the effect of EBM or maternal expression of breast milk on neonatal hypoglycemia. The effect of EBM on neonatal hypoglycemia was not estimable. There was no difference in the risk of hypoglycaemia among neonates whose mothers expressed breast milk compared to those whose mothers did not [RR (95%CI); one RCT: 0.92 (0.77, 1.10), high-certainty evidence; one cohort: 1.10 (0.74, 1.39), poor quality study].

CONCLUSIONS

There is insufficient evidence to determine the effectiveness of EBM for preventing or treating neonatal hypoglycemia. Limited data suggests maternal breast milk expression may not alter the risk of neonatal hypoglycemia. High-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to determine the effectiveness of EBM and maternal expression of breast milk for the prevention and treatment of neonatal hypoglycemia.

Teaching antenatal hand expression: a feasibility study in an inner urban U.S. hospital

BACKGROUND

Many women have low confidence in breastfeeding and have concerns regarding low milk volume or discomfort with breastfeeding. Antenatal hand expression may be an opportunity to help women feel more comfortable with breastfeeding and help promote exclusive breastfeeding. A study at a hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. assessed the feasibility of teaching antenatal hand expression at 39 weeks among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations, overall participant satisfaction and adoption of hand expression and breastfeeding.

METHODS

From March 2020 to June 2021, women recruited at 34-39 weeks were taught to hand express, collect, and store colostrum. Starting from 39 weeks, participants were asked to practice hand expression 1-3 times / day until delivery, log their experiences, and store colostrum expressed. Women were contacted to encourage continued hand expression and answer any questions. Postpartum, a survey assessed satisfaction with hand expression and issues encountered. The survey also inquired about breastfeeding plans and barriers, and whether women were exclusively breastfeeding (defined as infants who received only breastmilk from the time of birth). Chart review of postpartum or well-baby visit notes determined whether women continued breastfeeding.

RESULTS

Of the 29 participants, 72% (21/29) reported hand expressing at home, and no women reported contractions when hand expressing. Participants rated mean satisfaction of 8.1/10 (SD = 1.62) with antenatal hand expression, mean satisfaction of 9.4/10 (SD = 0.90) toward hand expression education, mean likelihood of 9.4/10 (SD = 1.24) recommending hand expression to others, and a mean score of 8.1/10 (SD = 1.69) on how helpful hand expression was in breastfeeding initiation. 90% (26/29) of women initiated breastfeeding after birth and 72% (21/29) exclusively breastfed on discharge, but only 11/29 (38%) continued exclusively breastfeeding when re-assessed 4-6 weeks postpartum. Barriers included maternal discomfort, low milk supply, and maternal or infant illness.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that women in an urban setting would be willing to practice antenatal hand expression. A larger and adequately powered study could be feasible to determine associations between antenatal hand expression and breastfeeding rates and confidence.

Education and Experiences of Antenatal Breast Milk Expression: A Systematic Review

Background: Breastfeeding rates have stagnated recently despite recommendations to breastfeed until age 2 years. Antenatal breast milk expression (ABME) is a method used to prepare the breast for breastfeeding. However, there is limited evidence available on the benefits, risks, and impact of ABME on maternal-infant breastfeeding dyads. Methods: This review identified and summarized studies on women who engaged in ABME and their personal experiences. Databases searched included PubMed MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and EMBASE. Initially, abstracts and titles were reviewed, and then, full-text studies were screened for inclusion by two blinded authors. Two authors assessed the quality of the studies using a standardized tool, two authors completed data extraction, and one author completed data harmonization into tables. Results: A total of 1,410 studies were identified (after duplicates removed) and 10 citations qualified for the inclusion criteria. Only two studies received an overall rating of strong quality and low-risk bias. The selected articles varied in primary outcomes; however, main focuses were experiences, knowledge, and perspective after practicing ABME. Data varied on timing of ABME, but most studies started between 34 and 36 weeks. The average amount of expressed milk was reported in four studies but was variable. Conclusions: This systematic review found that the literature is limited regarding ABME, and most studies were focused on women with diabetes. The current limited evidence suggests that ABME may be a helpful tool in improving maternal breastfeeding confidence and breastfeeding outcomes. Negative side effects reported related to ABME included difficulty learning the technique, discomfort, and feeling of awkwardness while expressing. Future research should focus on higher quality studies regarding use of ABME, proper teaching of ABME technique, and the use of ABME to improve breastfeeding outcomes in diverse populations of maternal-infant dyads.

Perinatal Factors Associated With Breastfeeding Trends After Preterm Birth <29 Weeks Gestation: Can We Predict Early Discontinuation?

OBJECTIVE

To determine the rates and perinatal factors associated with initiation and early discontinuation of breastfeeding among very preterm neonates.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of very preterm infants (<29 weeks gestation) admitted to 2 regional Level III neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2019. A national neonatal database was used to evaluate initiation and continuation rates of breastfeeding and associated perinatal factors. Stored nutrition profiles and delivery record books were used to determine feeding volumes associated with continuation of breastfeeding to hospital discharge for a subgroup of infants at a single site. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to present the results between groups, and logistic regression modeling was used to calculate crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% CI.

RESULTS

Of 391 eligible neonates, 84% initiated breastfeeding but only 38% continued to discharge. Interestingly, frequency of breastfeeding initiation (P < 0.001) and continuation (P < 0.001) declined over the study period. After adjustment for confounders, younger maternal age, earlier gestational age, cigarette smoking, and multiparity were significantly associated with early discontinuation of breastfeeding prior to hospital discharge. Early discontinuation of breastfeeding was also related to lower volumes of breastmilk by day 7 of life (P = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

Very preterm neonates are at high risk for non-initiation and early discontinuation of breastfeeding. The early postnatal period represents a critical time to establish breastmilk volumes, and the identification of key perinatal risk factors allows for early and targeted breastfeeding support.

Structured antenatal milk expression education for nulliparous pregnant people: results of a pilot, randomized controlled trial in the United States

BACKGROUND

Hand-expression, collection, and storage of breast milk during pregnancy (i.e., antenatal milk expression or AME) is a safe, potentially effective practice to reduce early, undesired infant formula supplementation among women with diabetes. The feasibility and potential impact of AME on lactation outcomes in the United States (U.S.) and among non-diabetic birthing people is unknown.

METHODS

The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility of a structured AME intervention among nulliparous birthing people in the United States. We recruited 45 low-risk, nulliparous individuals at 34-36^6/7 weeks of gestation from a hospital-based midwife practice. Participants were randomized to AME or a control group receiving lactation education handouts. Interventions were delivered at weekly visits at 37-40 weeks of pregnancy. The AME intervention involved technique demonstration and feedback from a lactation consultant and daily independent practice. Lactation outcomes were assessed during the postpartum hospitalization, 1-2 weeks postpartum, and 3-4 months postpartum.

RESULTS

Between December 2016 and February 2018, 63 individuals were approached and screened for eligibility, and 45 enrolled into the study (71%). Of 22 participants assigned to AME, 18 completed at least one AME study visit. Participants reported practicing AME on at least 60% of days prior to their infant's birth. Most were able to express milk antenatally (15/18), more than half collected and froze antenatal milk (11/18), and 39% (7/18) supplemented their infants with antenatal milk after birth. No major problems were reported with AME. Perinatal and lactation outcomes, including infant gestational age at birth, neonatal intensive care unit admissions, delayed onset of lactogenesis II, and use of infant formula were similar between AME and control groups. Among participants in both groups who were feeding any breast milk at each assessment, breastfeeding self-efficacy increased and perceptions of insufficient milk decreased over the postpartum course.

CONCLUSIONS

In a small group of nulliparous birthing people in the U.S., AME education and independent practice beginning at 37 weeks of pregnancy was feasible. In some cases, AME provided a back-up supply of milk when supplementation was indicated or desired. The relationship between AME and lactation outcomes requires further study with adequately powered samples.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial was retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov on May 11, 2021 under the following registration ID: NCT04929301. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04929301 .

Receiving screened donor human milk for their infant supports parental wellbeing: a mixed-methods study

BACKGROUND

Access to donor human milk (DHM) has primarily been based on the health and development outcomes of premature infants but there has been little examination of the broader impact of an infant receiving it upon parental mental health. Breastfeeding and mental health are closely tied with women who experience breastfeeding difficulties or are unable to meet their own breastfeeding goals often experiencing feelings of guilt, sadness and anger, alongside an increased risk of postnatal depression. The aim of the current study was to explore how experience of receiving DHM for their baby affected the wellbeing of parents.

METHODS

UK parents of infants aged 0 - 12 months who had received screened DHM from a milk bank (typically on the neonatal unit or in some cases in the community) completed an online questionnaire exploring their experiences. The questionnaire included Likert scale items examining perceived impact upon infant health, own wellbeing and family functioning alongside open-ended questions exploring perceptions of how receiving DHM affected wellbeing.

RESULTS

Almost all of the 107 participants (women = 102) agreed that receiving DHM had a positive impact upon infant health and development, their own mental and physical health, and their family's wellbeing. Parents felt relieved that their infant was receiving DHM for health reasons but also due to the experience of being listened to, supported and having their infant feeding decisions facilitated. Receiving DHM helped mothers to process some of their emotions at not being able to breastfeed, in part because knowing their baby was being fed gave them the space to focus on recovery and bonding with their baby. Some parents did experience challenges, feeling guilty at receiving DHM, insecure that another woman was able to feed their baby when they could not, or negative reactions from family. Although the impact of receiving DHM upon breastfeeding was not measured, some women who were working to build their own milk supply noted that it helped motivate them to continue.

CONCLUSIONS

DHM may play an important role not only in protecting infant health and development but in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of mothers for whom their infant receiving human milk is important.

'Is there any point in me doing this?' Views and experiences of women in the Diabetes and Antenatal Milk Expressing (DAME) trial

The Diabetes and Antenatal Milk Expressing (DAME) randomised controlled trial (RCT) was conducted in 2011–2015, at six sites in Melbourne, Australia to explore the effect of advising women with diabetes in pregnancy to express breast milk from 36 weeks gestation. Infants whose mothers were randomised to express in pregnancy were more likely to be exclusively breast milk fed during their hospital stay, and there was no evidence of harm. This paper explores women's views and experiences of antenatal expressing. In this two‐arm RCT, 635 women with diabetes in pregnancy who were otherwise of low medical risk were randomised at 36–37 weeks gestation to usual care (not expressing, n = 316), or the intervention, where women were advised to hand express for 10 min twice daily until birth (n = 319). Semistructured face‐to‐face interviews were conducted with 10 women who expressed antenatally. They were asked about their experiences of antenatal expressing, including how they felt about the overall experience, the amount of breast milk they expressed, making time to express, and their experience of breastfeeding. Thematic analysis of the in‐depth interviews identified six themes: (1) learning and adapting expressing, (2) feelings and sensations associated with expressing, (3) support, (4) dis/empowerment, (5) health, and (6) the value of breast milk. Women had both positive and negative experiences of antenatal expressing. If health professionals are advising antenatal expressing to women, it is important they understand the range of outcomes and experiences.

Women's experiences of antenatal expressing were both positive and negative; it is important to understand the range of experiences.

Women should be advised that some women express little or no breast milk antenatally and therefore be reassured if they are concerned.

For women with diabetes in pregnancy, their diabetes management is a significant time burden, and should be considered when discussing antenatal expressing with women.

Maternity care providers need to follow‐up with pregnant women advised to express, to provide education, reassurance, and reassess expressing techniques.

Maternity care providers need to manage and prioritise the use of expressed breast milk.

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.

Metabolic Conditions Including Obesity, Diabetes, and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Implications for Breastfeeding and Breastmilk Composition

Breastfeeding is internationally recognized as the recommended standard for infant nutrition, informed by evidence of its multiple benefits for both mother and baby. In the context of common metabolic conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, diabetes (type 1, type 2, and gestational), and obesity, breastfeeding may be particularly beneficial for both mother and infant. However, there is evidence of delayed lactogenesis and reduced breastfeeding rates and duration in women with these conditions, and the effects of altered maternal metabolic environments on breastmilk composition (and potentially infant outcomes) are incompletely understood. In this review, we explore the relationships between maternal metabolic conditions, lactogenesis, breastfeeding, and breastmilk composition. We examine relevant potential mechanisms, including the central role of insulin both in lactogenesis and as a milk-borne hormone. We also describe the bioactive and hormonal components of breastmilk and how these may link maternal and infant health.

Integrative Review of Antenatal Milk Expression and Mother-Infant Outcomes During the First 2 Weeks After Birth

OBJECTIVE

To explore the practice of antenatal milk expression (AME) and related outcomes for mother-infant dyads during the first 2 weeks after birth.

DATA SOURCES

We searched the electronic databases MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Emcare, Maternity & Infant Care Database, Scopus, and Web of Science for relevant literature. We also conducted backward reference searches on relevant publications and nondatabase searches after review of the full texts.

STUDY SELECTION

Articles were eligible for inclusion if they reported primary studies focused on AME, included samples of mother-infant dyads, and were published in English. We did not impose time or design limitations given the sparse availability of literature on AME. We identified 766 articles. After the removal of duplicates, we screened 588 articles, and of these, we included 15 articles in our review.

DATA EXTRACTION

We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to guide data extraction and reporting. We evaluated the quality of evidence using the Melnyk and Fineout-Overholt rating system and the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools.

DATA SYNTHESIS

We synthesized data from the included articles into four themes: Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy, Milk Supply, Infant Well-Being, and Infant Feeding Methods.

CONCLUSION

AME may support breastfeeding by improving breastfeeding self-efficacy and milk supply and by decreasing early formula use. Synthesized literature on AME shows the safety of the practice and that infants of women who practice AME have a greater likelihood of breastfeeding exclusivity during the short term.

Antenatal breastmilk expression for women with diabetes in pregnancy - a feasibility study

Background

Mothers with diabetes are less likely to achieve successful breastfeeding. Antenatal breastmilk expression (ABE) may facilitate earlier breastfeeding, but feasibility of introducing ABE and its acceptance among Scandinavian women have previously not been investigated.

Methods

This observational trial was conducted between the 1 January 2019 and the 12 March 2020 in Tromsø, Norway. We aimed to determine the feasibility of ABE in terms of practicality and acceptability among women with medically (metformin or insulin) treated diabetes. Women were invited to participate during antenatal visits from 32 weeks gestation. Participants received instruction and started ABE from gestation week 37 + 0. Participants, and their infants, were followed until 6–8 weeks after birth. We collected data on breastfeeding rates, infant hypoglycemia, transfer to the neonatal unit, and the women’s overall experience and satisfaction with antenatal breastmilk expression.

Results

Twenty-eight of 34 (82%) invited women consented to participate. All started ABE from week 37 + 0, and continued until hospital admission. No women reported any discomfort or side effects. Labor was induced at 38 weeks gestation. Twenty-four women brought harvested colostrum to the maternity ward, which was given to their infants during the first 24 h of life. Breastfeeding rates at discharge were 24/28 (86%) and 21/27 (78%) at 6–8 weeks after delivery. Seven (25%) infants were transferred to the neonatal unit; four because of hypoglycemia. Maternal satisfaction assessed 6–8 weeks after delivery revealed that all participants felt positive about the ABE, but one woman would not recommend it to other pregnant women.

Conclusions

Implementing a structured ABE guideline for women with medically treated diabetes was feasible. The intervention was associated with high level of satisfaction among study participants. No obvious side effects were observed, and breastfeeding rates at discharge and 6–8 weeks after delivery were higher than in comparable studies.

Trial registration

The study was registered at the research study registry at the University Hospital of North Norway (Nr 2018/7181).

Factors that positively influence in-hospital exclusive breastfeeding among women with gestational diabetes: An integrative review

PROBLEM

Women with gestational diabetes have higher rates of introducing infant formula before leaving hospital.

BACKGROUND

Despite health professional support, less women with gestational diabetes exclusively breastfeed in hospital.

AIM

To find factors that positively influence in-hospital exclusive breastfeeding practices among women with gestational diabetes.

METHODS

An online search was performed in Medline, Scopus, Pubmed, CINAHL and Cochrane databases. Studies containing the keywords gestational diabetes and breastfeeding were retrieved.

FINDINGS

Authors identified 1935 papers from search criteria. Twenty-six papers with no restrictions on research design met inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Factors were divided into personal, antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal factors. The main modifiable factors that were associated with improved in-hospital exclusive breastfeeding rates were having a strong intention to breastfeed, being confident, feeling supported and having continuity of education and support. Women's main reasons to introduce formula were related to baby's hypoglycaemia, delayed lactogenesis II and perceived low milk supply. Skin-to-skin contact after birth combined with frequent breastfeeds were effective ways to improve in-hospital exclusive breastfeeding rates.

CONCLUSION

Influencing factors such as women's breastfeeding intention, confidence and ongoing support are no different to the general population of women. However, promoting skin-to-skin contact after birth combined with frequent feeds are crucial for women with gestational diabetes who are more likely to introduce formula due to delayed lactogenesis II and fear of neonatal hypoglycaemia. There is a need for developing educational and supportive interventions that are tailored specifically for women who have gestational diabetes.

Evaluating antenatal breastmilk expression outcomes: a scoping review

Background

Antenatal breastmilk expression (aBME) is recommended by some healthcare providers to improve lactation, breastfeeding, and newborn outcomes, particularly for women with diabetes as they face unique challenges with breastfeeding. However, there is limited evidence of the potential harms and benefits of this practice. Our objective was to conduct a scoping review to map the literature describing maternal and newborn outcomes of aBME.

Methods

We searched Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, British Library E-Theses Online Services (EThOS) database, OpenGrey, and Clinical trials.gov from inception to January 2020. Studies in English that reported on the effect of aBME on maternal and newborn outcomes, and the experiences of women who have engaged in the practice were included for screening. Titles, abstracts, and full-text articles were screened by two independent reviewers. A critical appraisal and clinical consultation were conducted. Key findings were extracted and summarized.

Results

We screened 659 studies and 20 met the inclusion criteria. The majority of included studies (n = 11, 55.0%) were published after 2015, and seven (35.0%) originated from Australia. Ten (50.0%) studies provided data on high-risk obstetrical populations, including those with diabetes (n = 8), overweight or obesity (n = 1), and preeclampsia (n = 1). Commonly reported outcomes included breastfeeding status at discharge or follow-up, mode of delivery, newborn blood glucose, and time to establishing full lactation. Maternal experiences were related to challenges with aBME, confidence and mastery, perceived impact, security and altruism, learning and resources, and physical symptoms as a result of aBME. The critical appraisal demonstrated limited high-quality evidence surrounding aBME.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate increasing interest in the safety, efficacy, and acceptability of aBME. Existing studies are heterogenous with variable research questions, outcomes, study designs, and methodology. The recommendations made in this review can be used to help inform  future studies evaluating aBME.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13006-021-00371-7.

Barriers and benefits to breastfeeding with gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a disease of glucose intolerance during pregnancy and is associated with infant macrosomia, infant hypoglycemia, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes development for both mother and infant. Although breastfeeding potentially mitigates metabolic sequelae for both mother and her offspring, women with GDM are more likely to introduce formula and, therefore, are less likely to exclusively breastfeed, and some studies show less initiation and shorter breastfeeding duration as well. Therefore, women with GDM and their infants warrant investigation of methods by which to increase breastfeeding exclusivity and duration. Exploration of the barriers to breastfeeding for women with GDM demonstrate not only biologic complications such as maternal obesity, increased prevalence of cesarean section, and infant hypoglycemia, but also maternal report of less provider support of breastfeeding and reduced breastfeeding self-efficacy. Consequently, interventions designed to optimize breastfeeding outcomes in this high-risk population should not only focus on the biology but also on provider behavior and maternal social factors.

Maternal and newborn outcomes of antenatal breastmilk expression: a scoping review protocol

INTRODUCTION

Mothers with diabetes face unique challenges associated with breastfeeding initiation and maintenance. Antenatal breastmilk expression (BME) may be suggested to mothers, including mothers with diabetes, to improve breastfeeding, maternal, and infant outcomes postpartum. However, there have been few evaluations of the potential harms and benefits of this practice. The objective of our scoping review will be to broadly examine the literature describing maternal and infant outcomes of antenatal BME.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This scoping review will address the research question: 'Among women who engaged in antenatal BME, what maternal and infant outcomes have been evaluated?' A search of published and unpublished studies available in English will be conducted in February 2020 using the following databases: Medline (OVID), Embase (OVID), CINAHL (EBSCOHost), and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (OVID). A search of the British Library E-Theses Online Services (EThOS) database and OpenGrey will be conducted to identify relevant grey literature. This scoping review will use a five-step framework to guide the selection, extraction, and analysis of eligible studies. Clinical consultation will be included as a sixth step to our methodology. Literature reporting on the effect of antenatal BME on maternal and infant outcomes, breastfeeding initiation and duration, and the experiences of women who have engaged in the practice will be considered. The data will be summarised with attention paid to high-risk obstetrical populations such as women with diabetes. Our results will be reported as outlined by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Research ethics board approval will not be required due to the nature of the study's methodology. The results of this review will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication and presentation at relevant conferences.

TRAIL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Open Science Framework (osf.io/gfp2q).

"It gave me so much confidence": First-time U.S. mothers' experiences with antenatal milk expression

Antenatal milk expression (AME) involves maternal hand-expression, collection, and storage of breast milk during pregnancy for the purposes of reducing the early formula use in breastfed infants. AME is not widely practiced in the United States, despite its growing popularity elsewhere. In this study, we examined the experiences of first-time mothers recruited from a U.S. midwife practice who engaged in AME within the context of a pilot randomized controlled trial. The AME intervention involved demonstration and practice of AME with a lactation consultant beginning at 37 weeks of gestation, reinforcement at weekly study visits until delivery, and daily home practice. Nineteen women participated in a semistructured interview at 1-2 weeks postpartum regarding their study experiences. Major themes included (1) perceived benefits and impact of AME, (b) AME implementation, and (c) use of AME milk. Women perceived multiple benefits of AME, most notably that it increased their confidence that they would be able to make milk and breastfeed successfully postpartum. Women expressed some concern that no/little milk expressed could be indicative of postpartum milk production problems. Regarding implementation, women found that the AME protocol fit well into their daily routine. There was mixed feedback regarding comfort with practicing AME in the presence of partners. Reasons for postpartum use of AME milk varied; barriers to provision included inadequate milk storage options at the birth hospital and unsupportive hospital providers/staff. With few caveats, AME appears to be an acceptable breastfeeding support intervention among a sociodemographically homogeneous group of first-time mothers in the United States.

Women's perspectives on antenatal breast expression: a cross-sectional survey

Background

The practice of antenatal breast expression (ABE) has been proposed as a strategy to promote successful breastfeeding. Although there has been some focus on the evaluation of the effects of ABE in promotion of breastfeeding, little or no evidence exists on women’s experiences of ABE or opinions on ABE, particularly amongst overweight or obese women.

Methods

This study aimed to explore women’s knowledge, practices and opinions of ABE, and any differences within the overweight and obese subgroups. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken using an online questionnaire distributed by a maternity user group representative via social media. Quantitative data were analysed using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests in SPSS. Simple thematic analysis was used for the qualitative data.

Results

A total of 688 responses were analysed; the sample represented a group of breastfeeding mothers, of whom 64.5% had heard of ABE, 8.2% had been advised to do ABE, and 14.2% had undertaken ABE. Of the women who had been advised to do ABE, 67.9% had complied. Most participants (58.6%) were unsure if ABE was a good idea; however 80.9% would consider doing ABE if it was found to be helpful to prepare for breastfeeding. Women in the overweight or obese subgroups were significantly more likely to have heard of ABE (p < 0.001), and positive opinion of ABE also increased with higher BMI groups. The qualitative data demonstrated participants felt ABE may be beneficial when mother or baby have medical problems, and in preparation for breastfeeding, but highlighted their concerns that it may interfere with nature and be harmful, and that they wanted more information and knowledge about ABE.

Conclusions

Amongst women who have breastfed, many have heard of ABE, compliance with advice to undertake ABE is relatively high, and ABE is considered an acceptable practice. Further investigation into the benefits and safety of ABE is warranted, to address the needs of childbearing women for evidence-based information about this practice. If the evidence base is established, overweight and obese pregnant women could be an important target group for this intervention.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12978-018-0497-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Advising women with diabetes in pregnancy to express breastmilk in late pregnancy (Diabetes and Antenatal Milk Expressing [DAME]): a multicentre, unblinded, randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Infants of women with diabetes in pregnancy are at increased risk of hypoglycaemia, admission to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and not being exclusively breastfed. Many clinicians encourage women with diabetes in pregnancy to express and store breastmilk in late pregnancy, yet no evidence exists for this practice. We aimed to determine the safety and efficacy of antenatal expressing in women with diabetes in pregnancy.

METHODS

We did a multicentre, two-group, unblinded, randomised controlled trial in six hospitals in Victoria, Australia. We recruited women with pre-existing or gestational diabetes in a singleton pregnancy from 34 to 37 weeks' gestation and randomly assigned them (1:1) to either expressing breastmilk twice per day from 36 weeks' gestation (antenatal expressing) or standard care (usual midwifery and obstetric care, supplemented by support from a diabetes educator). Randomisation was done with a computerised random number generator in blocks of size two and four, and was stratified by site, parity, and diabetes type. Investigators were masked to block size but masking of caregivers was not possible. The primary outcome was the proportion of infants admitted to the NICU. We did the analyses by intention to treat; the data were obtained and analysed masked to group allocation. This trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, number ACTRN12611000217909.

FINDINGS

Between June 6, 2011, and Oct 29, 2015, we recruited and randomly assigned 635 women: 319 to antenatal expressing and 316 to standard care. Three were not included in the primary analysis (one withdrawal from the standard care group, and one post-randomisation exclusion and one withdrawal from the antenatal expressing group). The proportion of infants admitted to the NICU did not differ between groups (46 [15%] of 317 assigned to antenatal expressing vs 44 [14%] of 315 assigned to standard care; adjusted relative risk 1·06, 95% CI 0·66 to 1·46). In the antenatal expressing group, the most common serious adverse event for infants was admission to the NICU for respiratory support (for three [<1%] of 317. In the standard care group, the most common serious adverse event for infants was moderate to severe encephalopathy with or without seizures (for three [<1%] of 315).

INTERPRETATION

There is no harm in advising women with diabetes in pregnancy at low risk of complications to express breastmilk from 36 weeks' gestation.

FUNDING

Australian National Health and Medical Research Council.

Experiences of expressing and storing colostrum antenatally: A qualitative study of mothers in regional Western Australia

This qualitative study explored the experiences and breastfeeding outcomes of a group of mothers who expressed colostrum in the antenatal period. In-depth interviews were conducted over the telephone with 12 women who had attended a unique antenatal lactation clinic appointment at 37 weeks' gestation. Seven main response themes were identified. Most women reflected positively upon their attendance and reported that the experience of expressing colostrum allowed them to become familiar with their breasts and gave them a sense of security by having a supply of colostrum stored for possible use after birth. The main negative emotions reported were a sense of embarrassment at expressing the colostrum, particularly in front of another person, the difficulties with expressing colostrum and in one instance, the physical pain associated with the process. Antenatal expression of colostrum may improve maternal breastfeeding confidence. Further research using long-term records will determine whether this practice improves breastfeeding outcomes.

Effect of Antenatal Breast Milk Expression at Term Pregnancy to Improve Post Natal Lactational Performance

OBJECTIVES

To study the effect of antenatal breast milk expression at term pregnancy and subsequent effect on postnatal lactation performance.

METHODS

A sample size of 200 pregnant women who had completed 37 weeks of gestational period was selected. The sample size was divided equally into study (group 1) and control (group 2). The pregnant women in study (group 1) were advised to gently manually express their breasts at least once daily at any time, preferably during bathing. The remaining women constituted the group 2. At the time of delivery, all the mothers were advised to initiate breastfeeding their baby within half an hour of delivery. The time from initiation of lactation to full lactation when no top feed is required was noted. Assessment of sufficient lactation was judged by the objective and subjective criteria.

RESULT

In the group 1, 89 % of the cases established full lactation within 6 h of delivery, whereas in the group 2 only 72 % of the cases had established full lactation within 6 h. The difference in the group 1 and the group 2 is statistically significant (P < 0.05) with regard to time interval from initiation of lactation to full lactation. Maternal perception of satisfactory lactation was statistically significantly higher in group 1 compared with group 2. In the group 1, 100 % of vaginal delivery (FTND) cases had established full lactation within 6 h compared with 81 % in the group 2. The result is statistically significant (P < 0.10). In the group 1, 80 % of the lower segment cesarean section deliveries established full lactation within 6 h, whereas in the group 2, it was 61 %. The result is statistically significant (P < 0.10). In objective criteria, the post-feed weight gain was higher in the group 1.

CONCLUSIONS

Antenatal manual breast milk expression at term shortens the time taken to from initiation to full establishment of lactation, thus significantly improving postnatal lactational performance by early establishment of plentiful milk secretion.

Safety and efficacy of antenatal milk expressing for women with diabetes in pregnancy: protocol for a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Many maternity providers recommend that women with diabetes in pregnancy express and store breast milk in late pregnancy so breast milk is available after birth, given (1) infants of these women are at increased risk of hypoglycaemia in the first 24 h of life; and (2) the delay in lactogenesis II compared with women without diabetes that increases their infant's risk of receiving infant formula. The Diabetes and Antenatal Milk Expressing (DAME) trial will establish whether advising women with diabetes in pregnancy (pre-existing or gestational) to express breast milk from 36 weeks gestation increases the proportion of infants who require admission to special or neonatal intensive care units (SCN/NICU) compared with infants of women receiving standard care. Secondary outcomes include birth gestation, breastfeeding outcomes and economic impact.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Women will be recruited from 34 weeks gestation to a multicentre, two arm, unblinded randomised controlled trial. The intervention starts at 36 weeks. Randomisation will be stratified by site, parity and diabetes type. Women allocated to the intervention will be taught expressing and encouraged to hand express twice daily for 10 min and keep an expressing diary. The sample size of 658 (329 per group) will detect a 10% difference in proportion of babies admitted to SCN/NICU (85% power, α 0.05). Data are collected at recruitment (structured questionnaire), after birth (abstracted from medical record blinded to group), and 2 and 12 weeks postpartum (telephone interview).

DATA ANALYSIS

the intervention group will be compared with the standard care group by intention to treat analysis, and the primary outcome compared using χ(2) and ORs.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Research ethics approval will be obtained from participating sites. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented to clinicians, policymakers and study participants.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Australian Controlled Trials Register ACTRN12611000217909.

Antenatal breast milk expression by women with diabetes for improving infant outcomes

BACKGROUND

Some women with diabetes in pregnancy are encouraged to express and store colostrum prior to birthing. Following birth, the breastfed infant may be given the stored colostrum to minimise the use of artificial formula or intravenous dextrose administration if correction of hypoglycaemia is required. However, findings from observational studies suggest that antenatal breast milk expression may stimulate labour earlier than expected and increase admissions to special care nurseries for correction of neonatal hypoglycaemia.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of the expression and storage of breast milk during late pregnancy by women with diabetes.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (30 June 2014).

SELECTION CRITERIA

All published and unpublished randomised controlled trials comparing antenatal breast milk expressing with not expressing, by pregnant women with diabetes (pre-existing or gestational) and a singleton pregnancy.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently evaluated reports identified by the search strategy.

MAIN RESULTS

There were no published or unpublished randomised controlled trials comparing antenatal expressing with not expressing. One randomised trial is currently underway.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is no high level systematic evidence to inform the safety and efficacy of the practice of expressing and storing breast milk during pregnancy.

ABM clinical protocol #1: guidelines for blood glucose monitoring and treatment of hypoglycemia in term and late-preterm neonates, revised 2014

A central goal of The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine is the development of clinical protocols for managing common medical problems that may impact breastfeeding success. These protocols serve only as guidelines for the care of breastfeeding mothers and infants and do not delineate an exclusive course of treatment or serve as standards of medical care. Variations in treatment may be appropriate according to the needs of an individual patient.