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Support for breastfeeding mothers

  1. Cathryn Britton2,
  2. Felicia M McCormick1,*,
  3. Mary J Renfrew1,
  4. Angela Wade3,
  5. Sarah E King1

Editorial Group: Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group

Published Online: 7 OCT 2009

Assessed as up-to-date: 8 NOV 2006

DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001141.pub3

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How to Cite

Britton C, McCormick FM, Renfrew MJ, Wade A, King SE. Support for breastfeeding mothers. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 1. Art. No.: CD001141. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001141.pub3.

Author Information

  1. 1

    University of York, Mother and Infant Research Unit, Department of Health Sciences, York, UK

  2. 2

    University of York, Department of Health Sciences, York, UK

  3. 3

    Institute of Child Health, Centre for Paediatric Epidemiology and Biostatistics, London, UK

*Felicia M McCormick, Mother and Infant Research Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Area 4, Seebohm Rowntree Building, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK. fm510@york.ac.uk.

Publication History

  1. Publication Status: Edited (no change to conclusions)
  2. Published Online: 7 OCT 2009

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References

References to studies included in this review

  1. References to studies included in this review
  2. References to studies excluded from this review
  3. References to studies awaiting assessment
  4. Additional references
  5. References to other published versions of this review
Albernaz 2003 {published data only}
  • Albernaz E, Victora C. Impact of face-to-face counselling on duration of exclusive breastfeeding: a review. Pan American Journal of Public Health 2003;14(1):17-24.
  • Albernaz E, Victora CG, Haisma H, Wright A, Coward WA. Lactation counseling increases breast-feeding duration but not breast milk intake as measured by isotopic methods. Journal of Nutrition 2003;133(1):205-10.
Barros 1994 {published data only}
  • Barros FC, Halpern R, Victora CG, Teixera AM, Beria J. A randomised intervention study to increase breastfeeding prevalence in southern Brazil. Revista de Saude Publica 1994;28(4):277-83.
Bhandari 2003 {published data only}
  • Bhandari N, Bahl R, Mazumdar S, Martines J, Black RE, Bhan MK, et al. Effect of community-based promotion of exclusive breastfeeding on diarrhoeal illness and growth: a cluster randomised controlled trial. Lancet 2003;361:1418-23.
  • Bhandari N, Mazumder S, Bahl R, Martines J, Black RE, Bhan MK, et al. An educational intervention to promote appropriate complementary feeding practices and physical growth in infants and young children in rural Haryana, India. Journal of Nutrition 2004;134(9):2342-8.
  • Bhandari N, Mazumder S, Bahl R, Martines J, Black RE, Bhan MK, et al. Use of multiple opportunities for improving feeding practices in under-twos within child health programmes. Health Policy and Planning 2005;20(5):328-36.
Brent 1995 {published data only}
Chapman 2004 {published data only}
  • Chapman D, Damio G, Young S, Perez-Escamilla R. Association of degree and timing of exposure to breastfeeding peer counseling services with breastfeeding duration. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology 2004;554:303-6.
  • Chapman DJ, Damio G, Perez-Escamilla R. Differential response to breastfeeding peer counseling within a low-Income, predominantly Latina population. Journal of Human Lactation 2004;20(4):389-96.
  • Chapman DJ, Damio GD, Young S, Perez-Escamilla R. Effectiveness of breastfeeding peer counseling in a low-income, predominantly Latina population. Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine 2004;158(9):897-902.
Davies-Adetugbo 1997 {published data only}
  • Davies-Adetugbo AA, Adetugbo K, Orewole Y, Fabiyi AK. Breast-feeding promotion in a diarrhoea programme in rural communities. Journal of Diarrhoeal Diseases Research 1997;15(3):161-6.
Dennis 2002 {published and unpublished data}
  • Dennis CL. A randomized controlled trial evaluating the effect of peer (mother-to-mother) support on breastfeeding duration among primiparous women [PhD dissertation]. Toronto, Ontario, Canada: University of Toronto, 1999.
  • Dennis CL. Breastfeeding peer support: maternal and volunteer perceptions from a randomised controlled trial. Birth 2002;29:169-76.
    Direct Link:
  • Dennis CL, Hodnett E, Gallop R, Chalmers B. The effect of peer support on breastfeeding duration among primiparous women: a randomized controlled trial. Canadian Medical Association Journal 2002;166(1):21-8.
Di Napoli 2004 {published and unpublished data}
  • Di Napoli A, Di Lallo D, Fortes C, Franceschelli C, Armeni E, Guasticchi G. Home breastfeeding support by health professionals: findings of a randomised controlled trial in a population of Italian women. Acta Paediatrica 2004;93:1108-14.
    Direct Link:
Frank 1987 {published data only}
  • Frank DA, Wirtz SJ, Sorensen JR, Heeren T. Commercial hospital discharge packs and breastfeeding counseling: effects on infant feeding practices in a randomized trial. Pediatrics 1987;80(6):845-54.
Froozani 1999 {published data only}
  • Froozani MD, Permehzadeh K, Motlagh AR, Golestan B. Effect of breastfeeding education on the feeding pattern and health of infants in their first 4 months in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Bulletin of the World Health Organization 1999;77(5):381-5.
Gagnon 2002 {published data only}
Graffy 2004 {published data only}
Grossman 1990 {published data only}
  • Grossman LK, Harter C, Kay A. The effect of postpartum lactation counseling on the duration of breastfeeding in low-income women. American Journal of Diseases in Childhood 1990;144(4):471-4.
Haider 1996 {published data only}
  • Haider R, Islam A, Hamadani J, Amin NJ, Kabir I, Malek MA, et al. Breast-feeding counseling in a diarrhoeal disease hospital. Revista Panamericana De Salud Publica/Pan American Journal of Public Health 1997;1:355-61.
  • Haider R, Islam A, Hamadani J, Amin NJ, Kabir I, Malek MA, et al. Breastfeeding counselling in a diarrhoeal disease hospital. Bulletin of the World Health Organization 1996;74(2):173-9.
Haider 2000 {published data only}
  • Haider R, Ashworth A, Kabir I, Huttly S. Effects of community-based peer counsellors on exclusive breastfeeding practices in Dhaka, Bangladesh: a randomised controlled trial. Lancet 2000;356:1643-7.
  • Haider R, Kabir I, Huttley SRA, Ashworth A. Training peer counselors to promote and support exclusive breastfeeding in Bangladesh. Journal of Human Lactation 2002;18(1):7-12.
Jenner 1988 {published data only}
  • Jenner S. The influence of additional information, advice and support on the success of breast feeding in working class primiparas. Child Care, Health and Development 1988;14(5):319-28.
    Direct Link:
Jones 1985 {published data only}
Kools 2005 {published data only}
  • Kools EJ, Thijs C, Kester ADM, van den Brandt PA, de Vries H. A breast-feeding promotion and support program a randomized trial in the Netherlands. Preventive Medicine 2005;40:60-70.
Kramer 2001 {published and unpublished data}
  • Kramer MS, Chalmers B, Hodnett E, Sevkovskaya Z, Dzikovich I, Shapiro S, et al. Promotion of breastfeeding intervention trial (PROBIT): a randomized trial in the Republic of Belarus. JAMA 2001;285(4):413-20.
  • Lawrence RA. Promotion of Breastfeeding Intervention Trial (PROBIT) a randomized trial in the Republic of Belarus. Journal of Pediatrics 2001;139(1):164-5.
Leite 1998 {published data only}
  • Leite AJM, Puccini R, Atallah A, Cunha A, Machado M, Capiberibe A, et al. Impact on breastfeeding practices promoted by lay counselors: a randomized and controlled clinical trial. Journal of Clinical Epidemiology 1998;51(Suppl 1):S10.
Lynch 1986 {published data only}
  • Lynch SA, Koch AM, Hislop TG, Coldman AJ. Evaluating the effect of a breastfeeding consultant on the duration of breastfeeding. Canadian Journal of Public Health 1986;77(3):190-5.
McDonald 2003 {published data only}
  • McDonald SJ, Henderson JJ, Evans SF, Faulkner S, Hagan R. Effect of an extended midwifery support program on the duration of breastfeeding: a randomised controlled trial. [abstract]. Perinatal Society of Australia and New Zealand 7th Annual Congress; 2003 March 9-12; Tasmania, Australia. 2003:A68.
Mongeon 1995 {published data only}
  • Mongeon M, Allard R. A controlled study with regular telephonic support given by volunteers on the progress and outcome of breast-feeding [Essai controle d'un soutien telephonique regulier donne par une benevole sur le deroulment et l'issus de l'allaitment]. Revue Canadienne de Sante Publique 1995;86(2):124-7.
Moore 1985 {published data only}
Morrell 2000 {published data only}
Morrow 1999 {published data only}
  • Morrow AL, Lourdes Guerrero M. From bio-active substances to research on breastfeeding promotion. In: Newburg editor(s). Bioactive components of human milk. New York: Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers, 2001:447-55.
  • Morrow AL, Lourdes Guerrero M, Shults J, Calva JJ, Lutter C, Ruiz-Palacios GM, et al. Efficacy of home-based peer counselling to promote exclusive breastfeeding: a randomised controlled trial. Lancet 1999;353(9160):1226-31.
Pinelli 2001 {published data only}
  • Pinelli J, Atkinson SA, Saigal S. Randomized trial of breastfeeding support in very low-birth-weight infants. Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine 2001;155(5):548-53.
Porteous 2000 {published data only}
  • Porteous R, Kaufman K, Rush J. The effect of individualized professional support on duration of breastfeeding: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Human Lactation 2000;16(4):303-8.
Pugh 2002 {published data only}
  • Pugh L, Milligan R, Frick K, Spatz D, Bronner Y. Breastfeeding duration, costs, and benefits of a support program for low-income breastfeeding women. Birth 2002;29(2):95-100.
    Direct Link:
Quinlivan 2003 {published data only}
Santiago 2003 {published data only}
  • Santiago LB, Bettiol H, Barbieri MA, Guttierrez MRP, Del Ciampo LA. Promotion of breastfeeding: the importance of pediatricians with specific training [Incentivo ao aleitamento materno: a importancia do pediatra com treinamento especifico]. Jornal de Pediatria 2003;79(6):504-12.
Sjolin 1979 {published data only}
  • Sjolin S, Hofvander Y, Hillervik C. A prospective study of individual courses of breastfeeding. Acta Paediatrica Scandinavica 1979;68(4):521-9.
    Direct Link:
Winterburn 2003 {published and unpublished data}
  • Winterburn S, Moyez J, Thompson J. Maternal grandmothers and support for breastfeeding. Journal of Community Nursing 2003;17(12):4-9.
Wrenn 1997 {published data only}
  • Wrenn SE. Effects of a model-based intervention on breastfeeding attrition [dissertation]. San Antonio: University of Texas, 1997.

References to studies excluded from this review

  1. References to studies included in this review
  2. References to studies excluded from this review
  3. References to studies awaiting assessment
  4. Additional references
  5. References to other published versions of this review
Barnet 2002 {published data only}
  • Barnet B, Duggan AK, Devoe M, Burrell L. The effect of volunteer home visitation for adolescent mothers on parenting and mental health outcomes: a randomized trial. Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine 2002;156:1216-22.
Black 2001 {published data only}
Bloom 1982 {published data only}
  • Bloom K, Goldbloom RB, Robinson SC, Stevens FE. II. Factors affecting the continuance of breast feeding. Acta Paediatrica Scandinavica 1982;71(Suppl 300):9-14.
    Direct Link:
Bolam 1998 {published data only}
  • Bolam A, Manandhar DS, Shrestha P, Ellis M, Costello AM. The effects of postnatal health education for mothers on infant care and family planning practices in Nepal: a randomised controlled trial. BMJ 1998;316(7134):805-11.
Cattaneo 2001 {published data only}
Chen 1993 {published data only}
  • Chen CH. Effects of home visits and telephone contacts on breastfeeding compliance in Taiwan. Maternal-Child Nursing Journal 1993;21(3):82-90.
Davies-Adetugbo 1996 {published data only}
  • Davies-Adetugbo AA. Promotion of breastfeeding in the community: impact of health education programme in rural communities in Nigeria. Journal of Diarrhoeal Disease Research 1996;14(1):5-11.
Ellis 1984 {published data only}
Forster 2004 {published data only}
  • Forster D, McLachlan H, Lumley J, Beanland C, Waldenstrom U, Amir L. Two mid-pregnancy interventions to increase the initiation and duration of breastfeeding: a randomized controlled trial. Birth 2004;31(3):176-82.
    Direct Link:
  • Forster D, McLachlan H, Lumley J, Beanland C, Waldenstrom U, Harris H, et al. ABFAB. Attachment to the breast and family attitudes to breastfeeding. The effect of breastfeeding education in the middle of pregnancy on the initiation and duration of breastfeeding: a randomised controlled trial. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth 2003;3(1):5.
  • Forster DA, McLachlan HL, Lumley J, Beanland CJ, Waldenstrom U, Short RV, et al. ABFAB: attachment to the breast and family attitudes towards breastfeeding. The effect of breastfeeding education in the middle of pregnancy on the duration of breastfeeding: a randomised controlled trial [abstract]. Perinatal Society of Australia and New Zealand 7th Annual Congress; 2003 March 9-12; Tasmania, Australia. 2003:A70.
Gagnon 1997 {published data only}
  • Gagnon AJ, Edgar L, Kramer MS, Papageorgiou A, Waghorn K, Klein MC. A randomized trial of a program of early postpartum discharge with nurse visitation. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 1997;176:205-11.
Gross 1998 {published data only}
  • Gross SM, Caulfield LE, Bentley ME, Bronner Y, Kessler L, Jensen J, et al. Counseling and motivational videotapes increase duration of breast-feeding in African-American WIC participants who initiate breast-feeding. Journal of the American Dietetic Association 1998;98:143-8.
Grossman 1987 {published data only}
  • Grossman LK, Harter C, Kay A. Postpartum lactation counseling for low-income women. American Journal of Diseases of Children 1987;141:375.
Guise 2003 {published data only}
  • Guise JM, Palda V, Westhoff C, Chan BK, Helfand M, Lieu TA, et al. The effectiveness of primary care-based interventions to promote breastfeeding: systematic evidence review and meta-analysis for the US Preventive Services Task Force. Annals of Family Medicine 2003;1(2):70-8.
Hall 1978 {published data only}
  • Hall JM. Influencing breastfeeding success. Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Neonatal Nursing 1978;7:28-32.
    Direct Link:
Hauck 1994 {published data only}
  • Hauck YL, Dimmock JE. Evaluation of an information booklet on breastfeeding duration: a clinical trial. Journal of Advanced Nursing 1994;20(5):836-43.
    Direct Link:
Henderson 2001 {published data only}
Kistin 1994 {published data only}
  • Kistin N, Abramson R, Dublin P. Effect of peer-counsellors on breastfeeding initiation, exclusivity and duration among low-income women. Journal of Human Lactation 1994;10(1):11-5.
Labarere 2003 {published data only}
  • Labarere J, Bellin V, Fourny M, Gagnaire JC, Francois P, Pons JC. Assessment of a structured in-hospital educational intervention addressing breastfeeding: a prospective randomised open trial. BJOG: an international journal of obstetrics and gynaecology 2003;110:847-52.
    Direct Link:
Lavender 2004 {published data only}
  • Lavender T. Breastfeeding: expectations versus reality. 10th International Conference of Maternity Care Researchers; 2004 June 13-16; Lund, Sweden. 2004:12.
  • Lavender T, Baker L, Smyth R, Collins S, Spofforth A, Dey P. Breastfeeding expectations versus reality: a cluster randomised controlled trial. BJOG: an international journal of obstetrics and gynaecology 2005;112:1047-53.
    Direct Link:
Lieu 2000 {published data only}
  • Lieu TA, Braveman PA, Escobar GJ, Fischer AF, Jensvold NG, Capra AM. A randomized comparison of home and clinic follow-up visits after early postpartum hospital discharge. Pediatrics 2000;105:1058-65.
MacArthur 2002 {published data only}
  • MacArthur C, Winter HR, Bick DE, Knowles H, Lilford R, Henderson C, et al. Effects of redesigned community postnatal care on women's health 4 months after birth: a cluster randomised trial. Lancet 2002;359:378-85.
Mattar 2003 {published data only}
McInnes 2000 {published data only}
McKeever 2002 {published data only}
  • McKeever P, Stevens B, Miller KL, MacDonell K, Gibbins S, Guerriere D, et al. Home versus hospital breastfeeding support for newborns: a randomized controlled trial. Birth 2002;29(4):258-65.
    Direct Link:
  • Stevens B, McKeever P, Coyte P, Daub S, Dunn M, Gibbins S, et al. The impact of home versus hospital support of breastfeeding on neonatal outcomes. Pediatric Research 2001;49 Suppl(4):261A.
Neyzi 1991 {published data only}
  • Neyzi O, Gulecyuz M, Dincer Z, Olgun P, Kutluay T, Uzel N, et al. An educational intervention on promotion of breast feeding complemented by continuing support. Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology 1991;5:299-303.
Pascali-Bonaro 2004 {published data only}
  • Pascali-Bonaro D, Kroeger M. Continuous female companionship during childbirth: a crucial resource in times of stress or calm. Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health 2004;49(4 Suppl 1):19-27.
    Direct Link:
Perez-Escamilla 1992 {published data only}
  • Perez-Escamilla R, Segura-Millan S, Pollitt E, Dewey K. Effect of the maternity ward system on the lactation success of low-income urban Mexican women. Early Human Development 1992;31(1):25-40.
Ratner 1999 {published data only}
Rea 1999 {published data only}
  • Rea MF, Venancio SI, Martines JC, Savage F. Counselling on breastfeeding: assessing knowledge and skills. Bulletin of the World Health Organization 1999;77(6):492-8.
Redman 1995 {published data only}
  • Redman S, Watkins J, Evans L, Lloyd D. Evaluation of an Australian intervention to encourage breast feeding in primiparous women. Health Promotion International 1995;10(2):101-13.
Reeve 2004 {published data only}
  • Reeve JR, Gull SE, Johnson MH, Hunter S, Streather M. A preliminary study on the use of experiential learning to support women's choices about infant feeding. European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology 2004;113:199-203.
Rowe 1990 {published data only}
  • Rowe L, Hartmann PE. Comparison of two methods of breast feeding management. Proceedings of 6th Congress of the Federation of the Asia-Oceania Perinatal Societies; 1990; Perth, Western Australia. 1990:236.
Rush 1991 {published data only}
  • Rush JP, Kitch TL. A randomized, controlled trial to measure the frequency of use of a hospital telephone line for new parents. Birth 1991;18:193-7.
    Direct Link:
Schy 1996 {published data only}
  • Schy DS, Maglaya CF, Mendelson SG, Race KEH, Ludwig-Beymer P. The effects of in-hospital lactation education on breastfeeding practice. Journal of Human Lactation 1996;12(2):117-22.
Sciacca 1995 {published data only}
  • Sciacca JP, Dube DA, Phipps BL, Ratliff MI. A breast feeding education and promotion program: effects on knowledge, attitudes, and support for breast feeding. Journal of Community Health 1995;20(6):473-89.
  • Sciacca JP, Phipps B, Dube D, Ratliff MI. Influences on breast-feeding by lower-income women: an incentive, partner-supported educational program. Journal of the American Dietetic Association 1995;95(3):323-8.
Segura-Millan 1994 {published data only}
  • Segura-Millan S, Dewey KG, Perez-Escamilla R. Factors associated with perceived insufficient milk in a low-income urban population in Mexico. Journal of Nutrition 1994;124(2):202-12.
Serafino-Cross 1992 {published data only}
  • Serafino-Cross P, Donovan P. Effectiveness of professional breastfeeding home-support. Society for Nutrition Education 1992;24(3):117-22.
Steel O'Connor 2003 {published data only}
  • Steel O'Connor KO, Mowat DL, Scott HM, Carr PA, Dorland JL, Young Tai KF. A randomized trial of two public health nurse follow-up programs after early obstetrical discharge: an examination of breastfeeding rates, maternal confidence and utilization and costs of health services. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2003;94(2):98-103.
Valdes 2000 {published data only}
  • Valdes V, Pugin E, Schooley J, Catalan S, Aravena R. Clinical support can make the difference in exclusive breastfeeding success among working women. Journal of Tropical Pediatrics 2000;46(3):149-54.
Westphal 1995 {published data only}
  • Taddei JA, Westphal MF, Venancio S, Bogus C, Souza S. Breastfeeding training for health professionals and resultant changes in breastfeeding duration. Sao Paulo Medical Journal 2000;118:185-91.
  • Westphal MF, Taddei JAC, Venancio SI, Bogus CM. Breast-feeding training for health professionals and resultant institutional changes. Bulletin of the World Health Organization 1995;73(4):461-8.
Wiggins 2005 {published data only}
  • Wiggins M, Oakley A, Roberts I, Turner H, Rajan L, Austerberry H, et al. Postnatal support for mothers living in disadvantaged inner city areas: a randomised controlled trial. Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health 2005;59(4):288-95.
Wolfberg 2004 {published data only}
  • Wolfberg AJ, Michels KB, Shields W, O'Campo P, Bronner Y, Bienstock J. Dads as breastfeeding advocates: results from a randomized controlled trial of an educational intervention. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 2004;191:708-12.

References to studies awaiting assessment

  1. References to studies included in this review
  2. References to studies excluded from this review
  3. References to studies awaiting assessment
  4. Additional references
  5. References to other published versions of this review
Agrasada 2005 {published data only}
  • Agrasada GV, Gustafsson J, Kylberg E, Ewald U. Postnatal peer counselling on exclusive breastfeeding or low-birthweight infants: a randomised, controlled trial. Acta Paediatrica 2005;94:1109-15.
Ahmed 2008 {published data only}
  • Ahmed AH. Breastfeeding preterm infants: an educational program to support mothers of preterm infants in Cairo, Egypt. Pediatric Nursing 2008;34(2):125-30.
Aidam 2005 {published data only}
Anderson 2005 {published data only}
  • Anderson AK, Damio G, Young S, Chapman DJ, Perez-Escamilla R. A randomised trial assessing the efficacy of peer counseling on exclusive breastfeeding in a predominantly Latina low-income community. Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine 2005;159(9):836-41.
Anderson 2007 {published data only}
  • Anderson AK, Damio G, Chapman DJ, Perez-Escamilla R. Differential response to an exclusive breastfeeding peer counseling intervention: the role of ethnicity. Journal of Human Lactation 2007;23(1):16-23.
Baqui 2008 {published data only}
  • Baqui AH, El-Arifeen S, Darmstadt GL, Ahmed S, Williams EK, Seraji HR, et al. Effect of community-based newborn-care intervention package implemented through two service-delivery strategies in Sylhet district, Bangladesh: a cluster-randomised controlled trial. Lancet 2008;371(9628):1936-44.
Barlow 2006 {published data only}
  • Barlow A, Varipatis-Baker E, Speakman K, Ginsburg G, Friberg I, Goklish N, et al. Home-visiting intervention to improve child care among American Indian adolescent mothers: a randomized trial. Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine 2006;160(11):1101-7.
Bashour 2008 {published data only}
  • Bashour HN, Kharouf MH, Abdulsalam AA, El Asmar K, Tabbaa MA, Cheikha SA. Effect of postnatal home visits on maternal/infant outcomes in syria: a randomized controlled trial. Public Health Nursing 2008;25(2):115-25.
    Direct Link:
Bhandari 2007 {published data only}
  • Bhandari N. Promotion and consequences of exclusive breastfeeding in India [abstract]. Journal of Human Lactation 2007;23(1):75.
Bonuck 2005 {published data only}
  • Bonuck KA, Trombley M, Freeman K, McKee D. Randomized, controlled trial of a prenatal and postnatal lactation consultant intervention on duration and intensity of breastfeeding up to 12 months. Pediatrics 2005;116(6):1413-26.
Bonuck 2006 {published data only}
  • Bonuck KA, Freeman K, Trombley M. Randomized controlled trial of a prenatal and postnatal lactation consultant intervention on infant health care use. Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine 2006;160(9):953-60.
Bonuck 2008 {published data only}
  • Bonuck KA. Boosting breastfeeding in low-income, multi-ethnic women: a primary care based RCT (BINGO). ClinicalTrials.gov (http://clinicaltrials.gov/) (accessed 9 April 2008) 2008.
Brown 2008 {published data only}
  • Brown LP. Breastfeeding services for LBW infants - outcomes and cost. CRISP (http://crisp.cit.nih.gov) (accessed 17 June 2008) 2008.
Bunik 2007 {published data only}
  • Bunik M, Beaty B, Dickinson M, Shobe P, Kempe A, O'Connor ME. Early formula supplementation in breastfeeding mothers: how much is too much for BF duration success?. Breastfeeding Medicine 2007;2(3):184.
Bunik 2007a {published data only}
  • Bunik M, Shobe P, Crane L, Kempe A. Low-income Latina mothers' perspectives on breastfeeding issues and participation in a telephone based support intervention. Breastfeeding Medicine 2007;2(3):184.
Bunik 2007b {published data only}
  • Bunik M, Shobe P, O'Connor ME, Beaty B, Langendoerfer S, Crane L, et al. Randomized controlled trial to evaluate a telephone support intervention for breastfeeding in low-income Latina mothers. Breastfeeding Medicine 2007;2(3):183.
Caldeira 2008 {published data only}
  • Caldeira AP, Fagundes GC, de Aguiar GN. Educational intervention on breastfeeding promotion to the Family Health Program team [Intervencao educacional em equipes de Programa de Saude de Familia para promocao da amamentacao]. Revista de Saude Publica 2008;42(6):1027-33.
Caulfield 1998 {published data only}
  • Caulfield LE, Gross SM, Bentley ME, Bronner Y, Kessler L, Jensen J, et al. WIC-based interventions to promote breastfeeding among African-American women in Baltimore: effects on breastfeeding initiation and continuation. Journal of Human Lactation 1998;14(1):15-22.
Coutinho 2005 {published data only}
  • Bechara Coutinho S, Cabral de Lira P, de Carvalho Lima M, Ashworth A. Comparison of the effects of two systems for the promotion of exclusive breastfeeding. Lancet 2005;366:1094-100.
de Oliveira 2006 {published data only}
  • de Oliveira LD, Giugliani ER, do Espirito Santo LC, Franca MC, Weigert EM, Kohler CV, et al. Effect of intervention to improve breastfeeding technique on the frequency of exclusive breastfeeding and lactation-related problems. Journal of Human Lactation 2006;22(3):315-21.
Ebbeling 2007 {published data only}
  • Ebbeling CB, Pearson MN, Sorensen G, Levine RA, Hebert JR, Salkeld JA, et al. Conceptualization and development of a theory-based healthful eating and physical activity intervention for postpartum women who are low income. Health Promotion Practice 2007;8(1):50-9.
Ekstrom 2006 {published data only}
Ekstrom 2006a {published data only}
Eneroth 2007 {published data only}
  • Eneroth H, el Arifeen S, Kabir I, Persson LA, Lonnerdal B, Hossain MB, et al. Exclusive breastfeeding and infant iron and zinc status, the MINIMat study Bangladesh [abstract]. Journal of Human Lactation 2007;23(1):79-80.
Ferrara 2008 {published data only}
  • Ferrara A. Diet, exercise and breastfeeding intervention program for women with gestational diabetes (DEBI Trial). ClinicalTrials.gov (http://clinicaltrials.gov/) (accessed 20 February 2008) 2008.
Finch 2002 {published data only}
  • Finch C, Daniel EL. Breastfeeding education program with incentives increases exclusive breastfeeding among urban WIC participants. Journal of the American Dietetic Association 2002;102(7):981-4.
Forster 2006 {published data only}
  • Forster DA, McLachlan HL, Lumley J. Risk factors for early cessation of breastfeeding: results from a randomised controlled trial. Perinatal Society of Australia and New Zealand 10th Annual Congress; 2006 April 3-6; Perth, Australia. 2006:149.
Garcia-Montrone 1996 {published data only}
  • Garcia-Montrone V, de Rose JC. An education experience for promoting breast-feeding and infant stimulation by low-income women: a preliminary study. Cadernos de Saude Publica 1996;12(1):61-8.
Gijsbers 2006 {published data only}
  • Gijsbers B, Mesters I, Knottnerus JA, Kester ADM, Van Schayck CP. The success of an educational program to promote exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months in families with a history of asthma: a randomized controlled trial. Pediatric Asthma 2006;19(4):214-22.
Gijsbers 2006a {published data only}
  • Gijsbers B, Mesters I, Knottnerus JA, Van Schayck CP. Factors associated with the initiation of breastfeeding in asthmatic families: the attitude-social influence-self-efficacy model. Breastfeeding Medicine 2006;1(4):236-46.
Gijsbers 2008 {published data only}
  • Gijsbers B, Mesters I, Knottnerus JA, van Schayck CP. Factors associated with the duration of exclusive breast-feeding in asthmatic families. Health Education Research 2008;23(1):158-69.
Hall 2007 {published data only}
Hoddinott 2006 {published data only}
  • Hoddinott P. A randomised controlled trial to evaluate the clinical and cost effectiveness of breasfeeding peer support groups in improving breastfeeding initiation, duration and satisfaction. National Research Register (www.nrr.nhs.uk) (accessed 6 July 2006) 2006.
Hoddinott 2009 {published data only}
  • Hoddinott P, Britten J, Prescott GJ, Tappin D, Ludbrook A, Godden DJ. Effectiveness of policy to provide breastfeeding groups (BIG) for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers in primary care: cluster randomised controlled trial. BMJ 2009;338:a3026.
Inch 2003 {published data only}
  • Inch S, Law S, Wallace L. Hands off! The breastfeeding best start project (2). Practising Midwife 2003;6(11):24-5.
Isselmann 2006 {published data only}
  • Isselmann KF, Collins B, McCoy A. A prospective efficacy trial of a brief breastfeeding promotion intervention to prevent postpartum smoking relapse. American Public Health Association 134th Annual Meeting & Exposition 2006 Nov 4-8; Boston, MA. 2006.
Jakobsen 2008 {published data only}
  • Jakobsen MS, Sodemann M, Biai S, Nielsen J, Aaby P. Promotion of exclusive breastfeeding is not likely to be cost effective in West Africa. A randomized intervention study from Guinea-Bissau. Acta Paediatrica 2008;97:68-75.
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Jang 2008 {published data only}
  • Jang GJ, Kim SH, Jeong KS. Effect of postpartum breast-feeding support by nurse on the breast-feeding prevalence. Taehan Kanho Hakhoe chi 2008;38(1):172-9.
Johnston 2001 {published data only}
  • Johnston BD, Thompson RS, Huebner CE, Barlow WE, Tyll L. Expanded well-child care with a pre-natal component: early results from the group health evaluation of "healthy steps" [abstract]. Pediatric Research 2001;49(4):132A.
Jones 2004 {published data only}
  • Jones E, Jones P, Spencer A. Breastfeeding and returning to work. Practising Midwife 2004;7(11):17-8, 20, 22.
Junior 2007 {published data only}
  • Junior WS, Martinez FE. Effect of intervention on the rates of breastfeeding of very low birth weight newborns. Jornal de Pediatria 2007;83(6):541-6.
Kramer 2007 {published data only}
  • Kramer MS, Matush L, Vanilovich I, Platt R, Bogdanovich N, Sevkovskaya Z, et al. Effect of prolonged and exclusive breast feeding on risk of allergy and asthma: cluster randomised trial. BMJ 2007;335(7624):815.
Kramer 2007a {published data only}
  • Kramer MS, Vanilovich I, Matush L, Bogdanovich N, Zhang X, Shishko G, et al. The effect of prolonged and exclusive breast-feeding on dental caries in early school-age children. New evidence from a large randomized trial. Caries Research 2007;41(6):484-8.
Kramer 2008 {published data only}
  • Kramer MS, Aboud F, Mironova E, Vanilovich I, Platt RW, Matush L, et al. Breastfeeding and child cognitive development: new evidence from a large randomized trial. Archives of General Psychiatry 2008;65(5):578-84.
Kramer 2008a {published data only}
  • Kramer MS, Fombonne E, Igumnov S, Vanilovich I, Matush L, Mironova E, et al. Effects of prolonged and exclusive breastfeeding on child behavior and maternal adjustment: evidence from a large, randomized trial. Pediatrics 2008;121(3):e435-40.
Kramer 2009 {published data only}
  • Kramer MS, Matush L, Vanilovich I, Platt RW, Bogdanovich N, Sevkovskaya Z, et al. A randomized breast-feeding promotion intervention did not reduce child obesity in Belarus. Journal of Nutrition 2009;139(2):417S-21S.
Kronborg 2007 {published data only}
  • Kronborg H, Vaeth M, Olsen J, Iversen L, Harder I. Effect of early postnatal breastfeeding support: a cluster-randomized community based trial. Acta Paediatrica 2007;96(7):1064-70.
    Direct Link:
Kronborg 2008 {published data only}
  • Kronborg H, Vaeth M, Olsen J, Harder I. Health visitors and breastfeeding support: influence of knowledge and self-efficacy. European Journal of Public Health 2008;18(3):283-8.
Labarere 2005 {published data only}
  • Labarere J, Gelbert-Baudino N, Ayral AS, Duc C, Berchotteau M, Bouchon N, et al. Efficacy of breastfeeding support provided by trained clinicians during an early, routine, preventive visit: a prospective, randomized, open trial of 226 mother-infant pairs. Pediatrics 2005;115(2):e139-46.
Leite 2005 {published data only}
  • Leite AJ, Puccini RF, Atallah AN, Alves da Cunha AL, Machado MT. Effectiveness of home-based peer counselling to promote breastfeeding in the northeast of Brazil: a randomised clinical trial. Acta Paediatrica 2005;94:741-6.
Lewin 2005 {published data only}
  • Lewin SA, Dick J, Pond P, Zwarenstein M, Aja G, van Wyk B, et al. Lay health workers in primary and community health care. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2005, Issue 1. [Art. No.: CD004015. DOI: ]
MacArthur 2009 {published data only}
  • MacArthur C, Jolly K, Ingram L, Freemantle N, Dennis CL, Hamburger R, et al. Antenatal peer support workers and initiation of breast feeding: cluster randomised controlled trial. BMJ 2009;338:b131.
Mannan 2008 {published data only}
  • Mannan I, Rahman SM, Sania A, Seraji HR, Arifeen SE, Winch PJ, et al. Can early postpartum home visits by trained community health workers improve breastfeeding of newborns?. Journal of Perinatology 2008;28(9):632-40.
Memmott 2006 {published data only}
Merewood 2005 {published data only}
  • Merewood A, Philipp BL, Chamberlain LB, Malone KL, Cook JT, Bauchner H. Using peer support to improve breastfeeding rates among premature infants: an RCT [abstract]. Pediatric Academic Societies Annual Meeting; 2005 May 14-17; Washington DC, USA. 2005:Abstract no: 2342.
Merewood 2006 {published data only}
  • Merewood A, Chamberlain LB, Cook JT, Philipp BL, Malone K, Bauchner H. The effect of peer counselors on breastfeeding rates in the neonatal intensive care unit: results of a randomized controlled trial. Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine 2006;160(7):681-5.
Moore 2007 {published data only}
  • Moore SE, Prentice AM, Coward WA, Wright A, Frongillo EA, Fulford AJ, et al. Use of stable-isotope techniques to validate infant feeding practices reported by Bangladeshi women receiving breastfeeding counseling. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2007;85(4):1075-82.
Moreno-Manzanares 1997 {published data only}
  • Moreno-Manzanares L, Cabrera-Sanz MT, Garcia-Lopez L. Breast feeding [Lactancia materna]. Revista Rol de Enfermeria 1997;20(227-228):79-84.
Muirhead 2006 {published data only}
  • Muirhead PE, Butcher G, Rankin J, Munley A. The effect of a programme of organised and supervised peer support on the initiation and duration of breastfeeding: a randomised trial. British Journal of General Practice 2006;56(524):191-7.
Noel-Weiss 2006 {published data only}
  • Noel-Weiss J, Rupp A, Cragg B, Bassett V, Woodend AK. Randomized controlled trial to determine effects of prenatal breastfeeding workshop on maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy and breastfeeding duration. Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Neonatal Nursing 2006;35(5):616-24.
    Direct Link:
Peterson 2002 {published data only}
  • Peterson KE, Sorensen G, Pearson M, Hebert JR, Gottlieb BR, McCormick MC. Design of an intervention addressing multiple levels of influence on dietary and activity patterns of low-income, postpartum women. Health Education Research 2002;17(5):531-40.
Petrova 2009 {published data only}
  • Petrova A, Ayers C, Stechna S, Gerling JA, Mehta R. Effectiveness of exclusive breastfeeding promotion in low-income mothers: a randomized controlled study. Breastfeeding Medicine 2009;4(2):63-9.
Philipp 2004 {published data only}
  • Philipp BL, Merewood A, Malone KL, Chamberlain LB, Cook JT, Bauchner H. Effect of NICU-based peer counselors on breastfeeding duration among premature infants [abstract]. Pediatric Research 2004;55 Suppl:73.
Pugh 1998 {published data only}
Pugh 2007 {published data only}
  • Pugh LC, Nanda JP, Frick KD, Sharps PW, Spatz DL, Serwint JR, et al. A randomized controlled community-based trial to improve breastfeeding among urban low-income mothers. Pediatric Academic Societies Annual Meeting; 2007 May 5-8; Toronto, Canada 2007.
Ransjo-Arvidson 1998 {published data only}
  • Ransjo-Arvidson AB, Chintu K, Ng'andu N, Eriksson B, Susu B, Christensson K, et al. Maternal and infant health problems after normal childbirth: a randomised controlled study in Zambia. Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health 1998;52:385-91.
Rossiter 1994 {published data only}
Sakha 2008 {published data only}
Sinclair 2007 {published data only}
  • Sinclair M. Successful breastfeeding promotion: a motivational instructional model applied and tested. Current Controlled Trials (www.controlled-trials.com/) (accessed 30 October 2007) 2007.
Sisk 2006 {published data only}
  • Sisk PM, Lovelady CA, Dillard RG, Gruber KJ. Lactation counseling for mothers of very low birthweight infants: effect on maternal anxiety and infant intake of human milk. Pediatrics 2006;117(1):E67-E75.
Stevens 2006 {published data only}
  • Stevens B, Guerriere D, McKeever P, Croxford R, Miller KL, Watson-MacDonell J, et al. Economics of home vs. hospital breastfeeding support for newborns. Journal of Advanced Nursing 2006;53(2):233-43.
    Direct Link:
Su 2007 {published data only}
  • Su LL, Chong YS, Chan YH, Chan YS, Fok D, Tun KT, et al. Antenatal education and postnatal support strategies for improving rates of exclusive breast feeding: randomised controlled trial. BMJ 2007;335(7620):596.
Susin 2008 {published data only}
Thussanasupap 2006 {published data only}
  • Thussanasupap B. The effects of systematic instructional program on breastfeeding self-efficacy, nipple pain, nipple skin changes and incision pain of cesarean mothers [abstract]. Care, Concern and Cure in Perinatal Health. 14th Congress of the Federation of Asia-Oceania Perinatal Societies; 2006 Oct 1-5; Bangkok, Thailand. 2006:138.
Tylleskar 2008 {published data only}
  • Tylleskar T. PROMISE EBF: safety and efficacy of exclusive breastfeeding promotion in the era of HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. ClinicalTrials.gov (http://clinicaltrials.gov/) (accessed 20 February 2008) 2008.
Wallace 2006 {published data only}
  • Wallace LM, Dunn OM, Alder EM, Inch S, Hills RK, Law SM. A randomised-controlled trial in england of a postnatal midwifery intervention on breast-feeding duration. Midwifery 2006;22:262-73.
Wambach 2006 {published data only}
  • Wambach K. Kansas University Teen Mothers Project (ongoing trial). ClinicalTrials.gov (http://clinicaltrials.gov/) (accessed 21 March 2006) 2006.
Wambach 2009 {published data only}
  • Wambach K, Rojjanasrirat W, Williams Domian E, Aaronson L, Breedlove G, Yeh HW. Effects of a peer counselor and lactation consultant on breastfeeding initiation and duration. Journal of Human Lactation 2009;25(1):101-2.
Zukowsky 2007 {published data only}
  • Zukowsky K. Breast-fed low-birth-weight premature neonates: developmental assessment and nutritional intake in the first 6 months of life. Journal of Perinatal & Neonatal Nursing 2007;21(3):242-9.

Additional references

  1. References to studies included in this review
  2. References to studies excluded from this review
  3. References to studies awaiting assessment
  4. Additional references
  5. References to other published versions of this review
Anderson 1999
Aniansson 1994
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Labbock 2001
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Raisler 1999
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References to other published versions of this review

  1. References to studies included in this review
  2. References to studies excluded from this review
  3. References to studies awaiting assessment
  4. Additional references
  5. References to other published versions of this review
Renfrew 1995
  • Renfrew MJ. Postnatal support for breastfeeding mothers. [revised May 1994]. In: Enkin MW, Keirse MJNC, Renfrew MJ, Neilson JP, Crowther C (eds) Pregnancy and Childbirth Module. In: The Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Database [database on disk and CDROM]. The Cochrane Collaboration; Issue 2, Oxford: Update Software; 1995.
Sikorski 1999
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