Abstract
Objective
The aim of this study was to explore the impact of maternal stress on initiation, and establishment of breastfeeding.
Methods
Ninety five women were included in the study. Maternal stress was assessed: (1) objectively, with plasma cortisol levels taken from participants' as well as the umbilical cord blood, 10 min after delivery; (2) subjectively, with self-reported questionnaires administered 1 h and 4 days after delivery. Detailed records of breastfeeding parameters were obtained.
Results
Multivariate analyses indicated that controlling for age, and use of epidural during labor, post-delivery stress score was significantly associated with delayed initiation of lactation, lower milk volume, less frequent feedings and shorter duration of first feeding. Mothers' positive emotions were positively associated with feed frequency. Cortisol levels were not significantly related to initiation and establishment of breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Maternal stress after delivery can hinder the establishment of successful breastfeeding practices.
The aim of this study was to explore the impact of maternal stress on initiation, and establishment of breastfeeding.
Methods
Ninety five women were included in the study. Maternal stress was assessed: (1) objectively, with plasma cortisol levels taken from participants' as well as the umbilical cord blood, 10 min after delivery; (2) subjectively, with self-reported questionnaires administered 1 h and 4 days after delivery. Detailed records of breastfeeding parameters were obtained.
Results
Multivariate analyses indicated that controlling for age, and use of epidural during labor, post-delivery stress score was significantly associated with delayed initiation of lactation, lower milk volume, less frequent feedings and shorter duration of first feeding. Mothers' positive emotions were positively associated with feed frequency. Cortisol levels were not significantly related to initiation and establishment of breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Maternal stress after delivery can hinder the establishment of successful breastfeeding practices.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 162-167 |
| Journal | Journal of Neonatal Nursing |
| Volume | 19 |
| Issue number | 4 |
| Early online date | 13 Mar 2013 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Aug 2013 |
| Externally published | Yes |