Using virtual lactation support to improve breastfeeding among minority mothers
The Impact of Telelactation Services on Breastfeeding Outcomes among Minority Mothers: Siteless Tele-MILC Trial
This study is looking at how virtual lactation consultations can help minority mothers breastfeed better by connecting them with expert support from home, making it easier and more affordable for them to get the help they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rand Corporation NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Santa Monica, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10892311 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how telelactation services, which provide virtual lactation consultations via video calls, can improve breastfeeding outcomes for minority mothers. By connecting these mothers with International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) remotely, the study aims to increase access to professional support that is often lacking in underserved communities. The approach is designed to be convenient and cost-effective, allowing mothers to receive guidance without the need to travel. The research will involve a randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of this telelactation model in enhancing breastfeeding duration and exclusivity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are minority mothers who are pregnant or have recently given birth and are seeking support for breastfeeding.
Not a fit: Patients who are not interested in breastfeeding or who have already decided to exclusively formula-feed may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve breastfeeding rates among minority mothers, leading to better health outcomes for both mothers and infants.
How similar studies have performed: While telelactation is a relatively new approach, preliminary pilot studies have shown promise in improving breastfeeding support in rural communities, indicating potential for success in broader applications.
Where this research is happening
Santa Monica, United States
- Rand Corporation — Santa Monica, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Uscher-Pines, Lori — Rand Corporation
- Study coordinator: Uscher-Pines, Lori
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.