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Does breastfeeding induce spontaneous abortion?
Article first published online: 23 OCT 2009
DOI: 10.1111/j.1447-0756.2009.01072.x
© 2009 The Author. Journal compilation © 2009 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Additional Information
How to Cite
Ishii, H. (2009), Does breastfeeding induce spontaneous abortion?. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research, 35: 864–868. doi: 10.1111/j.1447-0756.2009.01072.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 23 OCT 2009
- Article first published online: 23 OCT 2009
- Received: February 2 2008. Accepted: January 26 2009.
- Abstract
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Keywords:
- breastfeeding;
- lactation counseling;
- postpartum care;
- pregnancy;
- spontaneous abortion
Abstract
Aim: To verify the hypothesis that even if breastfeeding is continued during pregnancy, there are no harmful effects on pregnancy.
Methods: The outcomes of pregnancies in mothers who continued breastfeeding during pregnancy were studied. One hundred and ten pregnant women were recruited who had one full-term baby, no experience of premature birth or abortion, and who continued to breastfeed at diagnosis of pregnancy. Age and pregnancy history matched 774 pregnant women were selected as a control group. All of the control women stopped breastfeeding at least 3 months before becoming pregnant. We reviewed the outcome of each pregnancy retrospectively from patient records. Statistical analysis was conducted using the χ2 test.
Results: Eight of 110 pregnancies (7.3%) resulted in spontaneous abortion in the breastfeeding group, and 65 of 774 pregnancies (8.4%) in the control group. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups (P > 0.05).
Conclusion: Even if the mother is pregnant, breastfeeding should be continued until natural weaning occurs. Further study is required to conclude safety of breastfeeding and premature birth.