Publication:

A comparative study of two breastfeeding assessment tools: LATCH scoring system and infant breastfeeding assessment tool

Background Many mothers discontinue exclusive breastfeeding early because of poor latch, perceived insufficient milk, and limited postnatal support. The LATCH scoring system and the Infant Breastfeeding Assessment Tool (IBFAT) are widely used to assess breastfeeding, but comparative data on their value in predicting sustained exclusive breastfeeding are limited.

Methods This prospective observational comparative study was conducted at M. S. Ramaiah Medical College and Hospital, Bengaluru, from June 2023 to May 2025. A total of 216 postpartum mothers of healthy term singletons were randomly allocated to the LATCH (n=108) or IBFAT (n=108) group. Each mother–infant dyad was assessed at 1 hour, 24 hours, and at discharge. Exclusive breastfeeding was determined by telephonic follow-up at six months. Data were analyzed in SPSS version 25.0 using chi-square, independent t-tests, and logistic regression; p<0.05 was considered significant.

Results IBFAT scores were higher than LATCH scores at all three time points (mean difference approximately −1.9; p=0.001). Exclusive breastfeeding at six months was reported by 76.9% of mothers in the LATCH group and 73.1% in the IBFAT group (p=0.530). The 1-hour IBFAT score was significantly associated with exclusive breastfeeding at six months (p=0.002), whereas the 1-hour LATCH score was not (p=0.114). Scores at 24 hours predicted six-month outcomes in both groups (IBFAT p=0.001; LATCH p=0.02). Discharge scores were not predictive in either group.

Conclusions IBFAT was more sensitive than LATCH in identifying effective early breastfeeding and predicting sustained exclusive breastfeeding. Routine use of IBFAT within the first 24 hours postpartum may improve early identification of dyads needing lactation support.