Breastfeeding outcomes in late preterm infants: A multi-centre prospective cohort study.
Amy Kate KeirAlice RumboldCarmel T CollinsAndrew J McPheeJojy VargheseScott MorrisThomas R SullivanShalem LeemaqzPhilippa MiddletonMaria MakridesKaren P BestPublished in: PloS one (2022)
Our study demonstrates that long-term exclusive breastfeeding rates were low in a cohort of women intending to provide breastmilk to their late preterm infants, with approximately half providing any breastmilk at 6 months CA. Formula as the first milk feed and intention to breastfeed >6 months were significant predictors of breastfeeding duration. Improving breastfeeding outcomes may require strategies to support early lactation and a better understanding of the ongoing support needs of this population.