Latch Score at Discharge as a Predictor of Exclusive Breastfeeding at Six Weeks in Healthy Term Newborns: A Prospective Observational Study
Keywords:
Latch Score, Exclusive Breastfeeding, Breastfeeding Assessment, Newborn, Lactation Support.Abstract
Background: Early breastfeeding difficulties may contribute to inadequate feeding, and early discontinuation of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF). The LATCH score provides a structured assessment of breastfeeding effectiveness.
Methods: This prospective observational study included 667 mother–infant dyads at Mahaveer Institute of Medical Sciences, Vikarabad, Telangana. LATCH scores were assessed within 24 hours of birth and at discharge. Mothers were followed up at six weeks to determine feeding pattern.
Results: The mean LATCH score increased significantly from 7.11±0.825 within 24 hours to 8.78±1.082 at discharge (p=0.001). At six weeks, 501 (75.1%) infants were exclusively breastfed. A discharge LATCH score >8 predicted EBF at six weeks with 95.4% sensitivity, 91.6% specificity, and an AUC of 0.949.
Conclusion: A higher LATCH score at discharge was associated with EBF at six weeks. LATCH scoring may help identify mother–infant dyads requiring additional breastfeeding support.
