Comparative Study of Breastfeeding in Caesarean Delivery and Vaginal Delivery Using LATCH Score and Maternal Serum Prolactin Level in Early Postpartum Period

Abstract

Introduction: Practice of starting and sustaining breastfeeding is affected by many conditions, mode of delivery is one of the major factor influencing it. Purpose of the study was to see if the mode of delivery affects the subsequent lactation in early postpartum period and to raise awareness among the community about the importance of mode of delivery in early initiation of breast feeding.

Materials and methods: Present study was a hospital based observational, comparative prospective study. A sample size of 120 subjects in each group (caesarean delivery CD Group and vaginal delivery VD group) was required. Serum prolactin and LATCH score both at 1^st hour and 24^th hour were compared in both groups.

Results: Mean LATCH score at 1^st hour and 24^th hour of CD Group was 5.44 ± 0.68 and 7.12 ± 0.95, respectively. The mean LATCH score at 1^st hour and 24^th hour of VD Group was 7.12 ± 0.94 and 8.1 ± 1, respectively. Mean serum prolactin level at 1^st hour and 24^th hour of CD Group was 259.68 ± 33.99 and 309.99 ± 42.27, respectively. Mean serum prolactin level at 1^st hour and 24^th hour of VD Group was 304.91 ± 42.07 and 333.34 ± 42.65, respectively. The mothers delivered by caesarean had main problem with latch (L) and hold (H) of the baby as compared to mothers delivered vaginally.

Conclusion: Mode of delivery has a direct impact on early initiation of breast feeding. Caesarean delivery is a cause for delay in initiation of breastfeeding.

Keywords: Breastfeeding; Caesarean delivery; LATCH score; Lactation; Prolactin; Vaginal delivery.