Birth
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In-hospital formula supplementation of breastfed newborns is commonplace despite its negative association with breastfeeding duration. Although several studies have described the use of formula supplementation, few have explored the factors that may be associated with its use. The aim of this study was to explore factors associated with in-hospital formula supplementation using data from a large Australian population-based survey. ⋯ The number of factors associated with in-hospital formula supplementation suggests that this practice is complex. Some results, however, point to an opportunity for intervention, with the BFHI appearing to be an effective strategy for supporting exclusive breastfeeding.
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The use of complementary and alternative medicine is increasingly prevalent in contemporary Western societies. The objective of this study was to explore trends and patterns in complementary and alternative medicine practitioner consultations and the use of complementary and alternative medicine consumption before, during, and after pregnancy and between pregnancies. ⋯ This study highlights the need for further research that is sensitive to the consumption of specific complementary and alternative therapies or modalities and to the wider contexts within which women perceive risk associated with their use of complementary and alternative treatments.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) developed the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative to improve hospital maternity care practices that support breastfeeding. In Hong Kong, although no hospitals have yet received the Baby-Friendly status, efforts have been made to improve breastfeeding support. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of Baby-Friendly hospital practices on breastfeeding duration. ⋯ Greater exposure to Baby-Friendly practices would substantially increase new mothers' chances of breastfeeding beyond 8 weeks postpartum. To further improve maternity care practices in hospitals, institutional and administrative support are required to ensure all mothers receive adequate breastfeeding support in accordance with WHO guidelines.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Long-term effects of epidural analgesia in labor: a randomized controlled trial comparing high dose with two mobile techniques.
Epidural analgesia provides the most effective pain relief in labor, but it is not known if it causes adverse long-term effects. The objective of this study was to assess the long-term effects of two mobile epidural techniques relative to high-dose epidural analgesia in a randomized controlled trial. ⋯ Trial evidence showed no long-term disadvantages and possible benefits of low-dose mobile relative to high-dose epidural analgesia.