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Expert support improves breastfeeding outcomes by reducing drop-off and extending duration.
In a major leap forward for maternal and infant health, a sweeping new analysis published in ‘JAMA Pediatrics’ has revealed that lactation consultant (LC) interventions notably improve breastfeeding outcomes in high-income countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia.
This study by Curtis J. D’Hollander et al., one of the most comprehensive of its kind, reviewed data from 40 randomized clinical trials involving over 8,500 mothers across these countries.
Breastfeeding rates remain low in wealthy nations—but new research reveals that timely, professional lactation support could be the game-changing solution mothers need.
Researchers reviewed over 6,400 records from seven major medical databases and included trials published between 1992 and 2024. Using advanced statistical models, they accounted for variations in how and when outcomes were measured, giving their findings depth and reliability.
Impressive Findings
Compared to standard care, mothers who received support from trained LCs were significantly more likely to continue exclusive breastfeeding and any breastfeeding for longer periods. Specifically, the interventions reduced the risk of stopping exclusive breastfeeding by 4% and stopping any breastfeeding by 8%. On average, breastfeeding lasted nearly four weeks longer with LC support. (Table 1)
More frequent visits from LCs led to even better results, and early postpartum support proved especially critical. Although data on infant growth and maternal confidence were less conclusive, learnings suggested potential benefits in these areas as well.
JAMA Pediatrics
Breastfeeding Support Provided by Lactation Consultants A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Curtis J. D’Hollander et al.
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