Description

In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret Salty reviews recent research findings that impact lactation consultants. From assessing the effectiveness of the Latch Scoring System to a rare case of lactation anaphylaxis and the role of healthcare providers in breastfeeding support, Margaret translates the latest studies into actionable insights for IBCLCs.

Key Points Covered:

1. Evaluating the Latch Scoring System for Breastfeeding Assessment

Margaret reviews a study on the effectiveness of the Latch Scoring System in identifying and correcting breastfeeding challenges. The study followed 80 mother-infant dyads and found that structured lactation interventions significantly improved latch scores, with cesarean-delivered mothers benefiting the most.

Reference:

Gautam, A., Singh, S. P., Narayani, V. K., Rathore, A., & Tripathi, M. (2025). LATCH Score for Identification and Correction of Breastfeeding Problems. International Journal of Life Sciences, Biotechnology and Pharma Research, 14(2), 345-350. https://doi.org/10.69605/ijlbpr_14.2.2025.64

Practical Takeaways:

• The LATCH score is a useful tool for early identification of breastfeeding challenges.
• Targeted lactation interventions improve latch scores and breastfeeding outcomes.
• Cesarean-delivered mothers need additional lactation support due to positioning challenges and delayed skin-to-skin contact.

2. Lactation Anaphylaxis with Cardiac Involvement – A Rare Case Study

Margaret discusses an alarming case study from Ireland where a postpartum mother developed severe anaphylaxis triggered by lactation, leading to temporary heart failure. This is the first reported case of lactation anaphylaxis with cardiac dysfunction.

Reference:

Al-Tikriti, S., Kumar, M., O’Brien, M., McMorrow, R., & Crosby, D. (2025). Lactation anaphylaxis complicated by reversible cardiac dysfunction in a multiparous woman with previous breastfeeding experience. Obstetric Medicine, 1-3. https://doi.org/10.1177/1753495X251317754

Practical Takeaways:

• Lactation anaphylaxis, though rare, can be life-threatening and should be considered in cases of postpartum allergic reactions.
• Postpartum hormone shifts, especially the drop in progesterone, may destabilize mast cells and trigger anaphylaxis.
• IBCLCs should be aware of potential cardiac involvement and advocate for urgent medical evaluation in cases of severe allergic reactions during lactation.

3. Breastfeeding Attitudes Among Mothers and Healthcare Professionals

A study from Croatia explored the gap between healthcare professionals’ perceived breastfeeding support and mothers’ actual experiences. While most providers believed they were offering strong support, not all mothers received skin-to-skin contact or early rooming-in.

Reference:

Zvigac, T. K., Fures, R., Hrgovic, Z., Rosic, D., Radic, L., Despot, A., Zivkovic, K., & Pekez, S. (2024). The attitudes of breastfeeding mothers and healthcare professionals about breastfeeding. Mater Sociomed, 36(4), 300-304. https://doi.org/10.5455/msm.2024.36.300-304

Practical Takeaways:

• Healthcare providers strongly support breastfeeding, but this doesn’t always translate into consistent implementation of best practices.
• Most mothers decide to breastfeed before or during pregnancy, reinforcing the need for early IBCLC...