Biomarker-based text messages to promote lactation success in mothers of critically Ill infants: a randomized controlled pilot study

Infrequent breast pumping limits mother’s own milk production in mothers of infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit. We aimed to determine the feasibility and benefit of biomarker-based personalized text messages on pumping frequency and milk sodium levels. A secondary aim examined lactation outcomes.

In this randomized controlled pilot study, 51 mothers were randomized to receive personalized text messages regarding pumping frequency or standard care.

There were no differences in pumped milk volume or sodium level, however, there was a trend towards the intervention group pumping more frequently, which was significant on day 5 (p = 0.035), and they lactated nearly 9 days longer. Post-hoc analysis found the intervention group tended to be more likely to pump ≥ 500 mL by day14 (p = 0.08), a marker of long-term lactation success.

Personalized biomarker-based text messages are feasible and may support lactation in mothers of critically ill infants.