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

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.

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.