Latch On: A protocol for a multi-centre, randomised controlled trial of perinatal support to improve breastfeeding outcomes in women with a raised BMI.

Abstract

This protocol is for a multi-centre, randomised controlled trial of perinatal breastfeeding support among primiparous women with a BMI >25 kg/m2, using a previously-tested, multi-component intervention. The primary outcome is any breastfeeding at 3 months. The intervention will support mothers and their partners and spans from late pregnancy to six weeks postpartum. Intervention components include group antenatal breastfeeding education, individual face-to-face education in the immediate postnatal period, professional support to six weeks' postpartum and weekly phone calls in the immediate postpartum period from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). The intervention will target attitudes towards breastfeeding, breastfeeding self-efficacy, and subjective norms around infant feeding with the aim to normalise the behaviour.