This study was a systematic review and meta-analysis designed to evaluate the effects of breastfeeding intervention on breastfeeding rates.

Based on the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA), a systematic search was conducted using eight core electronic databases and other sources including gray literature from January 9 to 19, 2017. Two reviewers independently select the studies and assessed methodological risk of bias of studies using the Cochrane criteria. The topics of breastfeeding interventions were analyzed using descriptive analysis and the effects of intervention were meta-analyzed using the Review Manager 5.2 software.

A total of 16 studies were included in the review and 15 were included for meta-analysis. The most frequently used intervention topics were the importance of good latch-on and frequency of feeding and determining adequate intake followed. The pooled total effect of breastfeeding intervention was 1.08 (95% CI 1.03~1.13). In the subgroup analysis, neither pre-nor post-childbirth intervention was effective on the breastfeeding rates at 1, 3, and 6 months, and neither group nor individual interventions had an effect. Only the 1 month breastfeeding rate was found to be affected by the individual intervention with the persistent strategies 1.21 (95% CI 1.04~1.40).

Effective breastfeeding interventions are needed to help the mother to start breastfeeding after childbirth and continue for at least six months. It should be programmed such that individuals can acquire information and specific breastfeeding skills. After returning home, there should be continuous support strategies for breastfeeding as well as managing various difficulties related to childcare.