Breastfeeding success in the first 6 months of online breastfeeding counseling after cesarean delivery and its effect on anthropometric measurements of the baby: a randomized controlled study

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of online breastfeeding counseling after cesarean section on breastfeeding success and anthropometric measurements of the baby in the first 6 months. METHODS: The study was conducted with single-blind randomized controlled experimental research design and performed with 151 primiparous women as intervention (n=76) and control (n=75) groups. The mothers were given training in the first 24 h postpartum by applying the “Data Collection Form,” “Breastfeeding and Infant Follow-up Form,” and “Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale – Short Form,” who followed up at the first and sixth months, and further again for 6 months. RESULTS: Although there was no difference and homogeneity at the beginning of study among the participants in the intervention group compared with the control group, it was observed that the breastfeeding rates at the first and sixth months were higher and significant. When the anthropometric measurements of the participants in both the groups were compared, it was found that there was a significant difference between the measurements of height and weight at discharge, first, and sixth months. Breastfeeding self-efficacy scores in the intervention group were significantly higher at discharge, 4 weeks postpartum, and 6 months postpartum than those in the control group (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Breastfeeding training and online counseling given to mothers who give birth by cesarean section during the early postpartum period increased breastfeeding rates and self-sufficiency, and the anthropometric measurements of babies were found to be higher at healthy limits.