Intellectus
Synopsis
This article discusses the updated recommendation by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of an infant's life with continuation through 2 years of age and beyond. The article reviews the scientific literature on medical education about breastfeeding, particularly in undergraduate and graduate medical education. This review of the literature finds a lack of standardized education about breastfeeding for physicians-in-training. Although interventions have shown promise in increasing physicians' knowledge and confidence about breastfeeding, more research is needed to evaluate educational interventions.
Abstract
Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its medical and neurodevelopmental benefits, leading to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommending exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of an infant’s life with continuation through 2 years of age and beyond.1 However, this literature review finds that despite the 2022 update to the AAP’s recommendations, education on breastfeeding for physicians-in-training is inadequate. Though interventions have been shown to increase the breastfeeding knowledge and confidence of physicians, more research is needed to evaluate the efficacy of educational interventions. This paper emphasizes the urgency of implementing comprehensive interventions that address the gaps in breastfeeding education for physicians-in-training and underscores the importance of evidence-based approaches to improve the healthcare professionals’ support of breastfeeding mothers in order to optimize health outcomes.
Recommended Citation
Douangchak KE.
Breastfeeding Education of Medical Students and Resident Physicians.
Intellectus.
2023;
1(1).
DOI: https://doi.org/10.61442/2994-4384.1005