Breast feeding Optimality and Neonate s Growth after Mother Aerobic Exercise; A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Aims: Evidence has suggested that there might be negative consequences and benefits associated with maternal exercise while breastfeeding. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of the exercise on lactation in breastfeeding women regarding whether mothers can exercise and breastfeed without detriment to the growth of their infants. Materials Methods: In this randomized controlled clinical trial, 38 lactating mothers with inclusion criteria referring to breastfeeding clinic, Isfahan, Iran in 2015 to 2016 were randomly divided into the intervention and control groups. The intervention group was required to do aerobic exercises for 6 weeks (3 days in week for 30 minutes in day).Training of aerobic exercise under the supervision of an expert was, then, performed. An educational pamphlet of the exercises along with the CD was given to them. Control group only received the routine care. After the intervention, mother and neonate outcomes such as mother’s breastfeeding interval and neonate weight were measured by the breastfeeding questionnaire. Data analysis was performed by t-test, X2 and Mann–Whitney U test. Findings: A significant difference was observed between 2 groups concerning the interval of breastfeeding (3.55±0.51 VS 2.05± 0.41) and neonate’s weight (6775.00±468.34 VS 5836.11± 401.39; p 0.001). In the group that received aerobic exercises, the number of breastfeeding in 24 hours and neonate’s weight were more than control group. Conclusion: Aerobic exercise has positive on the breastfeeding frequency and body weight of neonate. Thus, these exercises are recommended to be incorporated in postpartum care.