Breastfeeding in women with severe preeclampsia.

Abstract Background: In the United States, breastfeeding initiation is reported for 75% of all live births; however, little information is available for mothers affected by severe preeclampsia (SP) who because of magnesium sulfate treatment are separated from their infants in the immediate postpartum period. This study examined feeding practices and factors associated with breastfeeding initiation in 281 women with SP and their 200 late-preterm and 81 term infants. Subjects and Methods: SP was diagnosed according to established clinical and laboratory criteria. Infant feeding preference was ascertained on admission to labor and delivery. Variables known to influence breastfeeding initiation, including maternal age, smoking, obesity, and racial and educational characteristics, were assessed. Results: All mothers received magnesium sulfate for 24 hours following delivery. Of 281 infants, 54% were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). All mothers and infants survived. On admission, 149 women i...