Remote Lactation Support in the COVID-19 Era
Padma Nandula, Mark L. Hudak
Abstract
Breast milk provides optimal nourishment for all infants and has special advantages in preterm infants. Breast milk is associated with lower rates of necrotizing enterocolitis and bronchopulmonary dysplasia and improved neurodevelopmental outcomes in the preterm population. Mothers in the NICU may experience multiple psychological, physical, and social/cultural barriers that impede successful breastfeeding. Professional lactation support is of crucial importance in this population. With the social distancing requirements of the pandemic, many clinicians have adopted novel methods of education and communication to ensure continued timely support for NICU mothers.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineBreastfeedingNecrotizing enterocolitisBronchopulmonary dysplasiaLactationBreast milkPopulationBreast feedingCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)PandemicIntensive care medicinePediatricsPregnancyGestational ageEnvironmental healthInternal medicineChemistryGeneticsInfectious disease (medical specialty)DiseaseBiologyBiochemistryBreastfeeding Practices and InfluencesCOVID-19 Impact on ReproductionInfant Nutrition and Health