The Research Recap: 37-IYCF, Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice, Social Media, and Chrononutrition

In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret Salty reviews five fascinating new studies covering maternal autonomy in India, breastfeeding practices in Saudi Arabia, real-world concerns shared on social media, the circadian rhythm of breast milk, and more. Each study offers a unique lens on how culture, policy, biology, and digital spaces shape the feeding experience—and what lactation professionals can do to support families more effectively.Key Studies and Takeaways:1. “Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices and Their Association with Women's Autonomy: A Community-Based Study in Rural West Bengal”Citation: Sarkar, N. H., et al. (2025). Healthline, 16(1), 35–44. https://doi.org/10.51957/Healthline_689_2025Cross-sectional study with 161 mothers in rural IndiaWhile 96% breastfed, only 63% initiated within the first hour and 24% exclusively breastfedMaternal autonomy (decision-making, mobility, financial control) positively correlated with better IYCF practicesCesarean birth and female infants were associated with poorer outcomesIBCLCs must address family dynamics, autonomy, and equity—not just technique2. “Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Breastfeeding Among Mothers Attending King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia”Citation: Alhamedi, N. M., et al. (2025). Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, 14(4), 1295–1306. https://doi.org/10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1465_23Mixed-methods study with 334 mothers88% initiated breastfeeding, but only 39% exclusively breastfed to 6 monthsWorking mothers had better knowledge and earlier initiation, but faced structural barriersFormula use was common; 71% used ready-made formula in the hospitalIBCLCs must go beyond education—advocacy for workplace and hospital support is essential3. “Analysis of Social Media Posts: Breastfeeding Mothers Concerned About Breast Milk Supply, Logistics of Breastfeeding, and Child Development Outcomes”Citation: Heng, W. X., & Azhari, A. (2025). Women’s Reproductive Health. https://doi.org/10.1080/23293691.2025.2489500Qualitative analysis of 504 Facebook posts from Singapore mothersTop concerns: milk supply, breastfeeding logistics (especially while working), and infant growthMany mothers used the group to seek practical advice—not emotional validationReveals that self-efficacy is fragile, and community forums often serve as informal knowledge hubsIBCLCs should consider engaging in or partnering with online communities to share accurate guidance4. “Chrononutrition and the Role of Melatonin in Neonates”Citation: Markowska, M. (2025). Pediatrics and Family Medicine, 21(1), 46–50. https://doi.org/10.15557/PiMR.2025.0005Narrative review exploring melatonin in breast milk and its circadian rhythmBreast milk contains melatonin at night, which helps establish infant sleep cyclesPreterm infants rely entirely on maternal melatonin for early circadian regulationRecommends time-matched milk labeling in NICUs and awareness of donor milk limitationsAdds a new dimension to lactation counseling: breastfeeding isn’t just nourishment—it’s biological programmingConclusion:From biological rhythms to social dynamics, breastfeeding is shaped by so much more than supply and demand. These studies offer clinical, cultural, and digital insights that can help IBCLCs personalize care, address hidden barriers, and advocate for system-wide changes.Connect with Me:📸 Instagram:

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