Western Sydney University research review calls for tailored breastfeeding care

During World Breastfeeding Week (1–7 August), new analysis from experts highlights that personalised, compassionate and culturally sensitive care, could help more women achieve their breastfeeding goals.

Led by Professor Elaine Burns from Western Sydney University and Professor Gill Thomson from the University of Lancashire, the review published in Women and Birth has examined 41 breastfeeding papers published in the journal between 2020 and 2025. The researchers argue that while most women understand the benefits of breastfeeding and want to breastfeed, many are still not receiving the tailored support they need to achieve their own feeding goals.

The new research highlights evidence from 12 studies that offer new insights into the complex barriers women face during pregnancy and the early weeks after birth, demonstrating that effective breastfeeding support must reflect women's individual experiences rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach.

Some of the challenges that can prevent women from meeting their breastfeeding goals include pre-term birth, postpartum hemorrhage, breastfeeding aversion response, previous bariatric surgery, and concerns about milk supply. The authors also explain that cultural beliefs, family influences, and a lack of realistic antenatal education can all shape women's feeding experiences and confidence.

Rather than focusing solely on promoting breastfeeding, Professor Elaine Burns from Western’s School of Nursing and Midwifery said that maternity services should prioritise personalised, culturally appropriate support and continuity of care, particularly during the critical first six weeks after birth.

“Midwives are the core health professional group supporting women to initiate and establish breastfeeding. Breastfeeding support requires compassionate, woman-centred, culturally safe care that is tailored to individual physiological, psychological, social and cultural circumstances,” said Professor Burns.

“It includes realistic antenatal education, involvement of family and community supports, continuity of care beyond birth, and enhanced support from lactation specialists for women experiencing complex breastfeeding challenges.”

Professor Burns and Professor Thomson agreed that the future of breastfeeding support lies in recognising the diversity of women’s experiences and ensuring breastfeeding support is personalised, compassionate and responsive to individual circumstances.

For more information, read ‘Beyond breastfeeding promotion: New insights into supporting women to achieve their breastfeeding goals’ here.

ENDS.

6 August 2026
Photo credit: Hollie Santos via Unsplash
Media Unit