Effect of Early Structured Breastfeeding Counseling on Breastfeeding Technique: A Cross-sectional Study

Background Effective breastfeeding technique is vital for neonatal nutrition and well-being. Suboptimal breastfeeding technique might contribute to early neonatal morbidity. A structured breastfeeding counseling, provided to the mother within 24 h of childbirth, might lead to significant improvement in breastfeeding technique, as assessed using the LATCH score. Objective To evaluate the impact of structured breastfeeding counseling, which combines education, demonstration, hands-on support, and emotional encouragement within the first 24 h, on breastfeeding technique. Methodology This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in North India. The breastfeeding technique of 310 mothers was assessed within the first 24 h postpartum and after structured breastfeeding counseling, using the LATCH score. The pre- and post-counseling LATCH scores were compared. Descriptive statistics and paired t -test were used to evaluate score changes. Results Post-counseling, 97.1% of mothers achieved a LATCH score >8 compared to 3.9% pre-counseling, which was statistically significant ( p < .0001). Conclusion Structured breastfeeding counseling, provided within 24 h of birth, significantly improves breastfeeding technique.