Research

Cross-Case Comparison of Breastfeeding Support Models throughout California (CDC project)
In the summer of 2005, staff of the UC Davis Human Lactation Center conducted a cross-case comparison of various models of breastfeeding support currently used in California (including cost information). The objectives of this study were to 1) develop a detailed qualitative, descriptive summary for each program and to 2) identify key factors associated with successful programs. The ultimate goals of this study were 1) to expand the evidence-base related to optimal systems of health care for breastfeeding mothers and infants, 2) share key elements of active, successful programs with interested agencies and community members (which was done in October 2005), and 3) identify factors associated with successful programs for use in development of intervention trials.

Examining Barriers to Compliance with Infant Feeding Recommendations among Low-income Women (California WIC project)
In the summer of 2005, staff of the UC Davis Human Lactation Center conducted a multi-center, qualitative study in Northern California as a follow-up to the original study conducted in 2003 (also funded by WIC), which examined the barriers to compliance with infant feeding recommendations among low-income women. The short-term goal of this study was to (1) obtain, through focus groups, further detail related to mothers’ decision to use formula/solid foods rather than seek assistance with infant feeding problems and (2) develop a screening tool to be used in early intervention programs to identify women at risk for weaning and those who are reticent to seek help with breastfeeding problems.

Feeding Intentions Among Low-income Women (California WIC project)
In the spring of 2003, staff of the UC Davis Human Lactation Center conducted a multi-center, qualitative study of WIC participants in the Sacramento area. The short-term goal of this study was to better understand why non-optimal infant feeding practices occur among low-income women despite extensive education and counseling provided by WIC agencies. The aim of this project was to conduct pilot focus groups among culturally diverse WIC participants, in order to determine whether or not that the elements of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) are relevant to this population and to identify culturally specific factors that affect infant feeding behavior in the first 6 months postpartum.

Cost Analysis Evaluation-Sacramento WIC (Prop 10 project)
As part of an ongoing effort to identify cost-effective staffing structures for lactation support in public health agencies, Dr. Heinig conducted a cost analysis evaluation of a Prop 10-funded lactation consultant intervention project in Sacramento, California.

Duration of Breastfeeding Support Contacts within a Public Health Setting
Few data are available describing the time needed for lactation support visits in general and by specific problems. The purpose of this study, conducted in 2003, was to identify the length of time needed for visits based on contact point, and problems addressed.

Maternal and Infant Nutrition Workgroup
California Statewide Breastfeeding Needs Assessment
From October 2001 to May 2002, center faculty, in cooperation with the UC Davis Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources Maternal and Infant Nutrition Workgroup, conducted a needs assessment using the resources of the 37 active breastfeeding coalitions throughout the state of California; all but two agreed to participate. A survey was mailed to the designated contact person and the coalition members were asked to discuss and record their responses to the questions during one of their regular meetings. Approximately 320 people participated in the survey, representing a cross-section of providers of breastfeeding support including hospital nurses, public health nurses, lactation consultants, WIC nutritionists, clinical dietitians, social workers, and community health workers. The results represent these providers' views on the state of breastfeeding support services in California.

Prevalence of Mammary Candidosis among Lactating Women
Mammary candidosis or breast yeast infection is believed to be a frequent cause of premature weaning among breastfeeding mothers. In this study, the prevalence of mammary candidosis was calculated among a population of mothers attending a well-baby clinic visit at two months postpartum.

WHO Multicentre Growth Study
In 1999, center faculty and staff conducted a large prospective study of lactation and infant growth sponsored by the World Health Organization and co-funded by the USDA and National Institutes of Health. Davis was the only North American site of this worldwide effort to gather data for a new international child growth reference.

Risk Factors Study
In this study, a community-based sample of all residents of Davis who gave birth in 1999, was used to examine risk factors for breastfeeding difficulties in the first month postpartum.