19 Addressing Breastfeeding Challenges Through Digital Breastfeeding Education and Empowering Future Midwives: A Systematic Review

Speaker:- Nabila Zuhdy

Facilitator:- Zalfa Dinah Khairunnisa

Abstract:- Background: Breastfeeding provides major healty, h benefits for infants and mothers, yet early discontinuation remains prevalent due to common challenges such as latch difficulties, perceived low milk supply, nipple pain, and limited access to support. Digital breastfeeding education interventions (mobile apps, web platforms, telehealth, videos, and text messaging) offer scalable and accessible solutions. However, evidence on their effectiveness, acceptability, implementation, and midwives’ role is limited and often outdated or modality-specific. This systematic review consolidates recent evidence to guide the design of effective, equitable digital tools and their integration into future midwifery practice. Methods: Following PRISMA 2020, we searched PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Cochrane, and Sage for original English-language articles published 2020 – 2025. Two independent reviewers screened studies in Rayyan and appraised quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. Data were narratively and thematically synthesized. Results: Twenty-four studies from diverse settings were included. Digital interventions consistently improved maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy, knowledge, confidence, and exclusive breastfeeding rates and reduced perceived challenges. High usability, satisfaction, and acceptability were reported across low-income, adolescent, rural, and minority populations. Strengths included 24/7 accessibility, personalization, cultural tailoring, and reduced health worker burden. These tools extend midwifery reach, allowing focus on complex cases. Conclusion: Digital breastfeeding education is a promising, evidence-based complement to traditional support, enhancing outcomes and equity while aligning with woman-centered midwifery principles. Challenges include variable long-term effects, engagement barriers, and connectivity/digital literacy gaps. Future work should prioritize sustained impacts, inclusive design for low-resource contexts, and integration into midwifery curricula to maximize global breastfeeding success. PROSPERO 2026 CRD420251246430

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