Breastfeeding the Critically Unwell Child: A Call to Action

Introduction

Breastfeeding rates among children who have a serious illness or congenital condition are lower than the general population. There are many barriers to maintaining lactation during a child's illness, and specific training issues among staff working in pediatric departments.

Method

This is a narrative review of some of the most common challenges highlighted during a literature search prior to a research study that will be undertaken to explore this phenomenon in greater detail.

Results

There are many identified challenges for families of sick children. Lactation may be threatened or discontinued if the barriers are not adequately addressed. Lactation professionals working in any setting may work with families who are coping with difficulties that require more support.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding sick children, and those with complex medical conditions, requires adaptations and more specialized skills. Many families feel unsupported by their medical teams. Recommendations are made for collaborative working between pediatric medicine and surgery, nursing, oncology, radiology, dietetics, anesthetics, pain management, play therapy, child psychology, palliative care, social support, and lactation support.

What is known about this topic:

What this review adds: