Differences in breastfeeding rate between mothers delivering by caesarean section and those delivering vaginally

Aim: The aim of the study was to analyse the impact of delivery on breastfeeding at 6 months, with special focus on caesarean section combined with established breastfeeding at 2 months. Methods: Delivery mode and breastfeeding at 2 and 6 months were studied in a database of 130,993 infants from two Swedish counties between 1990-2011. Results: The difference in breastfeeding rates at 6 months between children delivered by caesarean section and children delivered vaginally was smaller in a subpopulation of children with established breastfeeding at 2 months compared to all children. The impact of delivery method on breastfeeding at 6 months was independent of child gender, mother's first child, maternal smoking and maternal education. Conclusions: Breastfeeding in mothers giving birth by caesarean section is more likely to continue until (at least) 6 months if established early (at 2 months). It may be worthwhile to promote breastfeeding for mothers who deliver by caesarean section.

Automated summary

The study shows that the difference in breastfeeding rates at 6 months between children delivered by caesarean section and vaginally is smaller for those with established breastfeeding at 2 months. Mothers who deliver by caesarean section are more likely to continue breastfeeding until at least 6 months if established early.