Accepted for/Published in: Journal of Medical Internet Research
Date Submitted: Dec 9, 2019
Date Accepted: Apr 27, 2020
Effectiveness of Internet-based E-technology Interventions on Breastfeeding Outcomes: A Systematic Review
ABSTRACT
Background:
Supporting women to initiate and continue breastfeeding is a global challenge. A range of e-technologies breastfeeding interventions are being developed, which offers different delivery modes and features over the internet; however, the impact of internet-based e-technologies on breastfeeding outcomes remains unclear.
Objective:
The aim of the study is to identify the characteristics of the current internet-based e-technology breastfeeding interventions and investigate the effects of internet-based e-technologies on breastfeeding outcomes.
Methods:
A systematic search was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines in the following databases: Scopus, Web of Science, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Science Direct, Google Scholar, the Association for Computing Machinery, Springer Link, and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Xplore.
Results:
This systematic review included 16 studies published from 2007 to 2018 with 4018 women in eight countries. The characteristics of the interventions were grouped based on a) mode of delivery (web-based, mobile applications and computer kiosk), b) purpose of the interventions (education and support), and c) key strategies (monitoring and breastfeeding tracking, personalization, online discussion forum, online consultation, breastfeeding station locators). Combining educational activities with online personalized support through discussion forums appeared to be the most effective way to improve breastfeeding outcome and long-term exclusive breastfeeding rates. Monitoring and breastfeeding trackers appeared to be least effective.
Conclusions:
This study demonstrated a variety of internet-based e-technologies that professionals can use to promote, educate and support breastfeeding women. Future internet-based e-technology breastfeeding interventions might consider improving interaction with mothers and personalized content of the proposed interventions.
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