First primary-care visit of the newborn and its implications for breastfeeding

Background The first primary-care visit of the newborn (FPCVNB) aims to assess neonatal feeding, promote breastfeeding, and identify potential health issues. This study examines the relationship between the timing of the FPCVNB and the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) at one month of life. Methods This prospective, observational, analytical study was conducted through a paediatric research network. Data were collected from newborns attending both the FPCVNB and the one-month check-up during the study period. Selected variables were compared to those from a 2014 study by the same research network to identify rates of EBF at the time of the FPCVNB. The main outcome, EBF prevalence at one month, was measured with data from 2024. Results A total of 1952 cases were collected in 2024, with the FPCVNB occurring at 9.3 ± 6.1 days after hospital discharge, compared to 2047 cases in 2014, where it occurred at 10.7 ± 6.3 days. The EBF prevalence at FPCVNB was 63.1% in 2014 and 62.6% in 2024. The EBF prevalence at one month in 2024 was 55.0% (95% CI: 52.7–57.3). Performing the newborn’s first primary care visit within 72 hours of discharge is significantly associated with higher rates of EBF at one month (ORa: 0.63; 95% CI: 0.41–0.98). Furthermore, EBF was positively associated with prior breastfeeding experience (ORa: 1.77; 95% CI: 1.41–2.21). Conclusions The FPCVNB occurs late in Spain. Rates of EBF have declined over the past decade, highlighting the need for targeted interventions that address modifiable determinants. Evidence suggests that performing an FPCVNB within 72 hours of hospital discharge is an effective intervention that significantly improves breastfeeding rates.