I came across an interesting study in which a prenatal [or antenatal, in
this case] class on latch had a major impact on breastfeeding outcomes.  In
this study, 70 women were divided equally into the education and control
groups.  Postpartum, 100% of the control mothers and 48% of the education
mothers had some nipple damage, 69% of the control mothers and 6% of the
education mothers had nipple cracks, 14% of the control mothers and 80% of
the education mothers had at least one pain-free day during the postpartum
period.  What a difference!

Duffy, E. et al.  Positive effects of an antenatal group teaching session
on postnatal nipple pain, nipple trauma and breast feeding rates.
Midwifery 1997; 13(4):189-96.

This might be a useful study to share for those of us who need to justify
breastfeeding classes to the powers that be.  It also refutes the notion
(if anyone still thinks so) that nipple trauma is "normal."

Obviously this was far different from Jan's dd's class.  Quality counts!

Nancy  Mohrbacher, IBCLC
Lactation Education Specialist, Hollister, Inc.
Chicago suburbs, Illinois, USA  where it is a perfect summer day

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