This study provides insight into the complex experience that mothers in the southeastern United States undergo when expressing milk for their VLBW infants.
The objective was to pilot a survey designed to assess fathers’ perceived acceptability of videoconferencing technology for the purpose of remote lactation consultation (RLC) for their partners. Data were obtained via a voluntary web‐based survey advertised on social media websites. Fathers >; 18 years old, with an infant < 6 months of age who was receiving breast milk at the time of study participation were eligible. Forty‐one fathers were eligible, consented, and completed the survey. Fathers were asked about their comfort with their partners’ use of web‐based communication software, general comfort levels with their partners’ breastfeeding, about any breastfeeding problems encountered, and any subsequent actions taken to correct these problems. Comfort with using web‐based communication software was generally high, with 81% (n=33) of fathers reporting comfort with their partners using email or instant messaging to communicate with health professionals, and 84% (n=35) reporting that they would feel comfortable with partners using web‐cams to communicate with health professionals. Of those reporting partners experiencing breastfeeding problems, 74% (n=30) of these problems would be included within the scope of practice of an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Results of this pilot study indicate acceptance among fathers of videoconferencing for the purpose of RLC.Grant Funding Source: University of Tennessee Internal Seed Funds
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