A randomised controlled trial comparing the effectiveness of different electric breast pumps (Preprint)

Abstract

BACKGROUND Electric breast pump could be more effective than manual pumps or hand expression of milk. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of current electric breast pumps, which have additional functions such as massage and ability to vary the rate and pressure. The study will also evaluate the impact of electric pump on breast engorgement, which is a common postpartum complication. METHODS A three-group randomised controlled trial (RCT) will be conducted on Mothers who are breastfeeding and using breast pumps. Adult Mothers who are 21-39 years old will be included. We propose a medium effect size of 0.40 for the study. Taking into account of about 20% dropout rate, 180 participants will be recruited (60 in each group). In addition, 120 control participants who are not using breast pump or not breastfeeding will be recruited. Data collection will include baseline maternal data and clinical data, quantity of expressed milk and duration taken, complications of breast pumping/feeding, and psychosocial data. Quantitative outcomes will be analysed using STATA, using univariate analyses, Pearson’s correlations, generalised estimating equation and two-way ANOVA repeated measures. RESULTS Na CONCLUSIONS Na CLINICALTRIAL Not required