>We also have had anecdotal evidence that the trend towards shorter stay is
>affecting breastfeeding, either in terms of reduced rate or increased
>difficulties,
Trish, I don't have the 'hard' data but I do agree with you. I have seen
readmissions to hospital lately for engorgement, and in my private practice
the number of women I am seeing who have attachment problems has trebled.
These women generally report only minor nipple problems before their early
discharge - then their milk comes in and their 'only just there' attachment
technique fails them completely.
I do casual work in a public maternity unit and I don't think we 'push' the
mothers out. I think there is an 'expectation' in the culture of pregnant
women (in the public system) that they will go home early. Perhaps they
feel it is implied, and certainly just by offering them the choice of early
discharge does put the idea into their head that they may not be welcome
after 48 or 72 or whatever hours.
I actually support early discharge (I know it doesn't sound like it!) but
the proviso is that the community follow-up must be by midwives with
EXCELLENT skills - there's no 'next shift' to correct a mistake made by
someone inexperienced (or untalented :-( ); and that follow-up needs to be
more flexible than it is in my district. ie a return visit that same day to
watch the next feed; or to continue past the set number of visits laid down.
I'd love to help you any way I can with your research - let me know if i
can be of assistance.
Denise
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Denise Fisher, BN, RM, IBCLC
BreastEd Online Lactation Studies Course
http://www.breasted.com.au
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
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