Literature review for - Flourish Paediatrics

‘Too little milk’ Milk Insufficiency
Search results
The initial search of the databases included 202 references on breastmilk insufficiency. Data
were extracted from 13 references, and 8 publications were used to form the final body of
evidence statements. Sufficient evidence was found to make statements on the prevalence of
perceived breastmilk insufficiency. Additional evidence was found on the management of
breastmilk insufficiency (3 narrative reviews) and risk factors for breastmilk insufficiency (1
narrative review, 1 cross-sectional), but the evidence was insufficient to develop a body of
evidence statement.
Prevalence of perceived breast milk insufficiency in lactating mothers
How does a mother’s perceived breastmilk insufficiency affect breastfeeding level and
duration?
Draft Evidence Statement
Draft Grade
Component Rating Notes
Approximately 25-35% of lactating women reduce
breastfeeding duration or level due to perceived
breastmilk insufficiency
D
Evidence Base Poor 4 studies [1 SLR, 3 cross-sectional (3P,10)]
Consistency
Clinical impact
Generalisability
Applicability
Satisfactory Percentage of mothers who reduced breastfeeding
duration or level as a result of perceived breastmilk
insufficiency ranged from 23.4% - 35%. SLR reported
a mean of 35%
Prevalence
only
Perceived milk insufficiency is a common concern
among breastfeeding women
Satisfactory Majority of studies conducted in developed countries
Satisfactory Results are applicable to Australian women
(Hill and Aldag 1991; Lee, Lui et al. 2006; Gatti 2008; Hurley, Black et al. 2008).
The studies used to make the body of evidence statement are shown in the Table below
The studies listed come from a variety of cultures and health systems. They show that
‘perceived milk insufficiency’ is a widespread concern of mothers from all cultures. An
alternate explanation is that ‘milk insufficiency’ is a socially acceptable reason for ceasing
breastfeeding. The studies included in the body of evidence statement are shown in the
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