Welcome to this episode of "The Journal of Human Lactation Podcast," where we delve into the groundbreaking world of lactation science. Join us as we explore the latest research articles, uncover innovative practices, and discuss the future of breastfeeding and human milk studies.

Link to the article, full text available for 6 weeks after podcast publication: ⁠⁠⁠New Validated Tool to Diagnose Breastfeeding Dysfunction⁠⁠⁠⁠

Authors: Rajeev Agarwal, Mars Eddis-Finbow, Jodie Tam, Jennifer Broatch, Kimberly J. Bussey

Full bios for all authors of the study available at JHL’s podcast page

Episode Summary: 

Today we discuss a recently published article titled "New Validated Tool to Diagnose Breastfeeding Dysfunction" by Rajiv Agarwal et al. Join us as we discuss this newly developed self-reported clinical assessment tool to help identify breastfeeding dysfunction without requiring extensive training for clinicians.

We talk about further issues such as the need for clear definitions of dysfunction, the potential for the tool to serve as an intake form or follow-up assessment, and the importance of understanding infant behavior and mechanics beyond just visual assessments of latch. 

Key Highlights:

Frequency vs. Severity: The researchers focused on symptom frequency rather than severity, recognizing that subjective pain levels vary among individuals.

Milk Supply Concerns: A notable exclusion from the tool was a question about perceived milk supply, highlighting the complexity and variability of parents’ concerns regarding milk adequacy.

Objective Question Design: The tool emphasized objective, observable questions to minimize bias in responses, improving assessment accuracy.

Agarwal R, Eddis-Finbow M, Tam J, Broatch J, Bussey KJ. New Validated Tool to Diagnose Breastfeeding Dysfunction. Journal of Human Lactation. 2024;40(1):120-131. doi:⁠10.1177/08903344231209306⁠

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