In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret Salty reviews recent research findings that impact lactation consultants. From assessing the effectiveness of the Latch Scoring System to a rare case of lactation anaphylaxis and the role of healthcare providers in breastfeeding support, Margaret translates the latest studies into actionable insights for IBCLCs.

Margaret reviews a study on the effectiveness of the Latch Scoring System in identifying and correcting breastfeeding challenges. The study followed 80 mother-infant dyads and found that structured lactation interventions significantly improved latch scores, with cesarean-delivered mothers benefiting the most.

Reference:

Gautam, A., Singh, S. P., Narayani, V. K., Rathore, A., & Tripathi, M. (2025). LATCH Score for Identification and Correction of Breastfeeding Problems. International Journal of Life Sciences, Biotechnology and Pharma Research, 14(2), 345-350. https://doi.org/10.69605/ijlbpr_14.2.2025.64

Practical Takeaways:

• The LATCH score is a useful tool for early identification of breastfeeding challenges.
• Targeted lactation interventions improve latch scores and breastfeeding outcomes.
• Cesarean-delivered mothers need additional lactation support due to positioning challenges and delayed skin-to-skin contact.

Margaret discusses an alarming case study from Ireland where a postpartum mother developed severe anaphylaxis triggered by lactation, leading to temporary heart failure. This is the first reported case of lactation anaphylaxis with cardiac dysfunction.

Reference:

Al-Tikriti, S., Kumar, M., O’Brien, M., McMorrow, R., & Crosby, D. (2025). Lactation anaphylaxis complicated by reversible cardiac dysfunction in a multiparous woman with previous breastfeeding experience. Obstetric Medicine, 1-3. https://doi.org/10.1177/1753495X251317754

Practical Takeaways:

• Lactation anaphylaxis, though rare, can be life-threatening and should be considered in cases of postpartum allergic reactions.
• Postpartum hormone shifts, especially the drop in progesterone, may destabilize mast cells and trigger anaphylaxis.
• IBCLCs should be aware of potential cardiac involvement and advocate for urgent medical evaluation in cases of severe allergic reactions during lactation.

A study from Croatia explored the gap between healthcare professionals’ perceived breastfeeding support and mothers’ actual experiences. While most providers believed they were offering strong support, not all mothers received skin-to-skin contact or early rooming-in.

Reference:

Zvigac, T. K., Fures, R., Hrgovic, Z., Rosic, D., Radic, L., Despot, A., Zivkovic, K., & Pekez, S. (2024). The attitudes of breastfeeding mothers and healthcare professionals about breastfeeding. Mater Sociomed, 36(4), 300-304. https://doi.org/10.5455/msm.2024.36.300-304

Practical Takeaways:

• Healthcare providers strongly support breastfeeding, but this doesn’t always translate into consistent implementation of best practices.
• Most mothers decide to breastfeed before or during pregnancy, reinforcing the need for early IBCLC involvement.
• Perceived low milk supply remains a top reason for early weaning, highlighting the importance of education and reassurance.

Margaret examines a comprehensive review on the gaps in research surrounding maternal diet during lactation. Most studies focus on breast milk composition rather than infant outcomes, and there is a lack of data on long-term breastfeeding.

Reference:

Rahmannia, S., Arena, G., Murray, K., Sakinah, A. D., Thariqi, Y. A., Diana, A., & Hickling, S. (2025). A scoping review of methodologies exploring diet and health outcomes in lactating women: What has been done and where to next? Nutrition Reviews. https://doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nuae228

Practical Takeaways:

• Current dietary guidelines for lactating mothers often rely on data from non-lactating women, which may lead to inaccurate recommendations.
• More research is needed on how maternal diet affects infant growth, micronutrient status, and long-term health.
• There is a significant gap in research on extended breastfeeding and global dietary variations among lactating women.

Staying informed on the latest research ensures IBCLCs provide evidence-based support to breastfeeding families. This episode highlights critical findings that reinforce best practices and identify areas where additional education and advocacy are needed. Tune in next week for another research recap!

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