Multidisciplinary plan needed to meet breastfeeding goals
(HealthDay)—The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) is calling for continuing education efforts to improve continuation of breastfeeding, particularly among underserved populations, according to a Committee Opinion published in the August issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology.
The ACOG Committee on Health Care for Underserved Women analyzed evidence to identify barriers and benefits of breastfeeding, particularly in underserved women and children. Utilizing resources from the literature and public health agencies, the committee identified approaches to improve breastfeeding initiation and continuation.
The committee has identified multiple sources of available information to aid providers in educating their patients and providing breastfeeding guidance. Multidisciplinary stakeholders include practitioners, hospitals, family members, and child care providers. Counseling of patients should begin during prenatal care. Health care providers should be aware of community resources, particularly for underserved women who may lack social support.
"Through a multidisciplinary approach that involves practitioners, family members, and child care providers, obstetrician-gynecologists can help underserved women overcome obstacles and obtain the benefits of breastfeeding for themselves and their infants," the authors write.
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