Gastric Lavage has no Role in Improving Exclusive Breastfeeding Rates in Neonates Born through MSAF

A recent study aimed to evaluate the effects of gastric lavage on exclusive breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact in neonates delivered through meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF).

This was a randomized controlled trial (RCT) that investigated the impact of gastric lavage in neonates born through meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF), on exclusive breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact. The study included 110 late preterm and term neonates not requiring significant resuscitation. Participants were divided into gastric lavage (GL) and no-GL groups.

It was noted that the two groups showed no variation concerning the primary outcome – exclusive breastfeeding at 72 hours. However, GL delayed skin-to-skin contact initiation, reduced its duration, and even failed to alleviate respiratory distress or feeding intolerance. Procedure-related complications included – retching, vomiting, and mild desaturation.

The study depicted that gastric lavage did not improve exclusive breastfeeding and compromised skin-to-skin contact duration without reducing respiratory distress or feeding problems in neonates delivered through MSAF. Therefore, routine gastric lavage in these neonates appears unnecessary.

Source: Chaudhary RK, Chaurasia S, Singh P, Priyadarshi M, Bhat NK, Chaturvedi J, Basu S. Indian Pediatrics. 2023 Mar 20:S097475591600515-.