Comparing the effectiveness of a breastfeeding arm sling with the normal cross-cradle hold position: A quasi-experimental study in Thailand

Abstract

INTRODUCTION In Thailand, the exclusive breastfeeding rate remains low at 14% in 2019, despite the World Health Organization’s recommendation of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. Many mothers experience challenges such as lack of confidence, fatigue, and discomfort while breastfeeding. To address these issues, the novel arm sling innovation device was developed to provide support during breastfeeding. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of breastfeeding using the arm sling versus the normal cross-cradle hold among first-time mothers and to evaluate their satisfaction with the breastfeeding arm sling. METHODS A quasi-experimental crossover design was employed in the postpartum unit at Ramathibodi Hospital, Thailand, in 2022. Forty-six first-time mothers breastfed using both a breastfeeding arm sling and the normal cross-cradle hold, with a washout period in between. Breastfeeding effectiveness was measured by mothers and nurse-midwives using questionnaires, and mothers’ satisfaction with the sling was assessed. Data were evaluated using descriptive statistics and t-tests. RESULTS The breastfeeding arm sling innovation significantly improved breastfeeding effectiveness compared to the normal cross-cradle hold, reported by both mothers (t=4.32, p<0.001) and nurse-midwives (t=8.93, p<0.001). Most mothers expressed satisfaction with the arm sling, though some design aspects, such as ease of use, require improvement. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that the breastfeeding arm sling can potentially improve breastfeeding experiences for first-time mothers. Further research is needed on a larger scale and in more diverse settings to confirm these findings and to improve the sling’s design for user-friendliness.