Biomarker-based text messages to promote lactation success in mothers of critically Ill infants: a randomized controlled pilot study.

Objective: Infrequent breast pumping limits mother's own milk production in mothers of infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit. We aimed to determine the feasibility and benefit of biomarker-based personalized text messages on pumping frequency and milk sodium levels. A secondary aim examined lactation outcomes.

Study Design: In this randomized controlled pilot study, 51 mothers were randomized to receive personalized text messages regarding pumping frequency or standard care.

Results: There were no differences in pumped milk volume or sodium level, however, there was a trend towards the intervention group pumping more frequently, which was significant on day 5 (p = 0.035), and they lactated nearly 9 days longer. Post-hoc analysis found the intervention group tended to be more likely to pump ≥ 500 mL by day14 (p = 0.08), a marker of long-term lactation success.

Conclusion: Personalized biomarker-based text messages are feasible and may support lactation in mothers of critically ill infants.