Evaluation of early oral stimulation by sweeping method to enhance breastfeeding in term neonates

Objectives: The objective of the study is to assess the efficacy of sweeping the oral cavity in neonates in the establishment of breastfeeding within 1 h of delivery. Material and Methods: Every neonate born after 37 completed weeks of gestation through normal vaginal delivery on odd-numbered dates was allocated to Group A, where sweeping of the oral cavity was done, after which the latch, audible swallowing, type of nipple, comfort, hold (LATCH) score was assessed. Every neonate born on even-numbered dates was allocated to Group B, and the LATCH score was assessed without sweeping. Results: The average total LATCH score in this study was 8.37, which signifies good breastfeeding. When we correlated the LATCH scores with sweeping, we found that sweeping improved the LATCH score, and this difference was statistically significant ( p < 0.05). Conclusion: Oral motor stimulation in the form of sweeping the oral cavity significantly improved the LATCH score in our study population. Hence, this simple, safe intervention can be considered in all term neonates to enhance feeding and nutrition.