The impact of Paediatric Ankyloglossia on exclusive breastfeeding in Portugal: an online survey on mother’s experiences

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ABSTRACT

Aim

This study examined maternity ward indicators associated with exclusive breastfeeding prevalence (EBFP) for six months, including diagnosis and treatment of ankyloglossia and indicators associated with the evaluation of the latter.

Methods

An online survey assessed mothers’ breastfeeding experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study enlisted 2,540 mothers in Portugal who had given birth at least once between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2022. An online survey was circulated via social media during August 2023 with closed questions regarding mothers’ breastfeeding experiences and questions on the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of ankyloglossia. Poisson regressions were performed.

Results

According to mothers’ reports, the EBFP for six months was 64.5%, while 19% and 51.3% of infants received evaluation of lingual frenulum during hospitalisation in the maternity ward and during the first six months, respectively. Diagnosis and treatment of ankyloglossia were reported for 16% and 13.2% of infants, respectively. The adjusted model showed a higher EBFP for six months among mothers with skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth with support to breastfeed at maternity ward, as well as infants born outside the hospital environment (p<0.05). Conversely, mothers who breastfed after the first hour of life were significantly (p<0.05) less likely to report EBFP for six months. The evaluation of infant lingual frenulum at maternity was more likely in those born in a private hospital in 2022, where mothers received breastfeeding support, but less likely in those who breastfed after the first hour of life (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Positive measures in the maternity ward, such as breastfeeding support, skin-on-skin contact, along with early initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour after birth, contribute to EBFP for up to six months and evaluation of the lingual frenulum. These findings underscore the importance of consistent breastfeeding support and highlight an increased emphasis on ankyloglossia assessment during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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