The Research Recap: 33-Extended Breastfeeding, Early Initiation, and Loneliness and Self-Efficacy

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty reviews recent research findings that impact lactation consultants. From extended breastfeeding and growth outcomes in Ethiopia, to the feeding experiences of first-time mothers, and the link between loneliness and breastfeeding confidence—Margaret translates the latest studies into actionable insights for IBCLCs.Key Points Covered:1. Extended Breastfeeding and Undernutrition in Ethiopian ChildrenMargaret discusses a large cross-sectional study from Ethiopia examining the relationship between breastfeeding beyond 12 months and child undernutrition.Reference:Hailu, A., et al. (2025). Extended breastfeeding over one year is associated with a higher likelihood of underweight and stunting among children under three years of age in Ethiopia. International Journal of Nutrition and Public Health, 14(2), 87–95. https://doi.org/10.1186/ijnph.2025.8702Practical Takeaways:Extended breastfeeding was associated with higher odds of stunting and underweight—but was protective against wasting.The issue is not prolonged breastfeeding itself, but lack of adequate complementary foods.Undernutrition was also tied to illness, sanitation issues, poverty, and low parental education.IBCLCs must pair breastfeeding support with education on timely, nutrient-dense complementary feeding.2. Early Initiation and Exclusive Breastfeeding Among First-Time Mothers in EthiopiaMargaret reviews a mixed-methods study exploring breastfeeding behaviors and beliefs among Ethiopian first-time mothers.Reference:Tsegaye, M., et al. (2025). Early initiation of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding practices and associated factors among first-time mothers attending governmental maternal and child health clinics in Ethiopia: A mixed-methods study. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 25, 330. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-025-02275-9Practical Takeaways:74.7% of mothers initiated breastfeeding in the first hour. Vaginal delivery and colostrum feeding were strong predictors.Only 46.8% practiced exclusive breastfeeding to 6 months.Support from spouses and health workers significantly improved outcomes.Cultural beliefs about colostrum and prelacteal feeds (e.g., butter, water) remain barriers.First-time mothers need culturally sensitive, evidence-based support from birth through postpartum.3. Loneliness and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy in MothersMargaret explores a Turkish study linking maternal loneliness to breastfeeding confidence and behavior.Reference:Demir, Z., & Yıldız, G. (2025). The relationship between loneliness perception and breastfeeding self-efficacy in breastfeeding behaviors and mothers. Maternal and Child Health Journal, 29(2), 151–160. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-025-03642-7Practical Takeaways:Lonelier mothers had significantly lower breastfeeding self-efficacy and shorter breastfeeding duration.Spousal and social support were key to confidence and breastfeeding success.Employed and educated mothers showed higher self-efficacy and lower loneliness scores.IBCLCs should screen for isolation and integrate psychosocial support into care.Conclusion:From cultural feeding practices to emotional wellbeing, these studies underscore the many factors shaping breastfeeding outcomes. As IBCLCs, it’s our responsibility to meet families where they are, support the whole dyad, and advocate for systems that nourish breastfeeding...

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