There’s nothing quite like the pressure to raise a child. For parents in the information age, there are countless studies, recommendations, and parenting trends to sort through. As a certified breastfeeding counselor (CBC) you can help clients understand the evidence and make informed decisions. That includes supporting them as they navigate information about a recent study: Breastfed Babies May Grow Into Better Adjusted Teens.
As I said, no pressure, right? For a new parent reading that, it could be daunting and overwhelming. This is especially true if they’re facing lactation difficulties. Being able to read and interpret new studies is an excellent skill to help you support your clients.
So, what did this study find? What does it mean for you as a CBC?
Study: Babies May Grow Into Better Adjusted Teens
This study included thousands of British children who were born between 2000 and 2002. At ages 3, 5, 7, 11, and 14 the children were assessed. Researchers used questionnaires about their strengths and difficulties as reported by their parents and teachers.
The study results showed that children who were breastfed for three or more months developed fewer behavioral difficulties compared to peers who weren’t breastfed.
The breastfeed children were less likely to struggle with:
- Anxiety
- Struggling to form friendships
- Concentration
- And other social and emotional challenges.
These results remained true even after researchers adjusted for other variables. The results held true regardless of a mother’s education, her mental health, and family wealth.
As the results remained even when adjusting for other risk factors, researchers feel these results are quite accurate. Evidence supports not breastfeeding can increase the risk of social and emotional problems during the teen years.
What Do Professionals Say About This Study?
When interpreting a study as a non-clinical CBC, it can be helpful to research how other professionals interpret the data. When you look at differing responses to the study, look for common components of their interpretations. If multiple professionals agree on the meaning of the same data, the interpretations may reinforce the meaning of the study.
The study lead author Lydia Speyer, of the University of Edinburgh School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences, said:
“Having identified that there are potential behavioral benefits, our study strengthens the case for public health strategies that promote breastfeeding, where possible.”
Speyer also said, “”The positive impact of breastfeeding on children’s physical development is well known, but the effect on their social and emotional development is less understood.”
Understanding the long-term impact of breastfeeding is an important aspect of public health. When there’s understanding about the many benefits, more healthcare facilities, government programs, etc., will focus on lactation support and education.
An OB’s Take On This Study
Dr. Jennifer Wu is an obstetrician-gynecologist at Lenox Hill Hospital, in New York City, also provided her feedback. Wu felt that it’s important to note researchers couldn’t prove cause and effect. However, “the longevity of this study, and the fact that the behavioral analyses show the trend over time, make the data more robust.”
Wu, also said, “breastfeeding can have far-reaching effects for the child,” and the findings from this new study “should be used in discussions with pregnant patients who are considering whether to breastfeed.”
She also made a very important note that society needs to make room so that new moms can freely breastfeed. “On a larger scale, workplaces need policies to support breastfeeding for 6 months,” Wu believes.
What Does This Study Mean For CBCs?
As a non-clinical provider, it can be hard to understand the role of medical studies in your practice. This type of study serves as evidenced-based information to share with your clients. It provides you with knowledge you can use to educate and support women struggling with lactation.
Being armed with evidence is an important part of your job. When counseling an expectant or new mother, being knowledgeable can bring her confidence in your support.
While breastfeeding is a normal physiological process, it can be a challenging one for many reasons. When parents understand the long-term impact of breastfeeding, it can make it easier for them to navigate passed the challenges.
This type of study won’t impact exactly how you support and educate your clients. It doesn’t change any current recommendations. A study like this is most beneficial from a public health standpoint. Meaning, you are likely to use this information for educating clients but not change current feeding recommendations.
Staying up-to-date on lactation evidence helps you maintain your professionalism as a CBC.