Interventions in exclusive breastfeeding: a systematic review.
Now recognised as a worldwide public health issue, the significance of promoting and encouraging exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) has been acknowledged by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). Documented policies about the importance of facilitating the support of breastfeeding women is currently receiving worldwide recognition (WHO, 2011; WHO and UNICEF, 2003). This literature review will examine provision of support mechanisms for breastfeeding mothers, focusing on peer support in encouraging the starting and maintaining of EBF. Consideration will also be given to any barriers that may prevent higher success rates, as cultural and educational factors may have a significant impact on the starting and maintaining of EBF. These factors must be considered when starting support groups, networks or activities that aim to address this significant public health issue.
Staff Nurse, Chesterfield Royal Hospital Trust, Chesterfield, Derbyshire.
Gillian
G
Bevan
Senior Lecturer (Education Health and Sciences), University of Derby, Chesterfield Site, Chamber of Commerce and Business Link, Canal Wharf, Derbyshire.
Michelle
M
Brown
D001942:Breast Feeding / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D010379:Peer Group; D012944:Social Support; D014944:World Health Organization