The Research Recap: 40- Milkborne GBS, Phlegmon, Peer Support, Midwifery Gaps

Behind the Latch

In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret Salty explores four critical pieces of research affecting lactation professionals: a rare case of breast milk-transmitted GBS infection, an under-recognized complication known as lactational phlegmon, the effectiveness of peer support in UK breastfeeding programs, and gaps in midwifery breastfeeding education in South Africa. Each study offers key clinical insights and action points for IBCLCs supporting breastfeeding families in real-world settings.

Key Studies and Takeaways:

1️⃣ Late-Onset Group B Streptococcal Disease via Contaminated Breast Milk

Citation: Mazeda, I., Vieira, B., Pinho, J., Branco, S., & Oliveira, G. (2025). International Journal of Pediatrics and Neonatology, 7(1), 83–85. https://doi.org/10.33545/26648350.2025.v7.i1b.125

• A one-month-old developed late-onset GBS traced to the mother's breast milk, despite her being asymptomatic and GBS-negative during pregnancy.
• Both infant and mother were successfully treated with antibiotics, and breastfeeding was resumed post-clearance.
• IBCLC Takeaway: Always consider breast milk as a potential GBS source—even in asymptomatic cases—and support safe milk handling and temporary cessation strategies when needed.

2️⃣ Lactational Phlegmon: A Rare Clinical Entity

Citation: AlArafah, S. K., Aldhafeeri, D. A., Aldhafeeri, A. S., Aldhafeeri, F. S., & Aldhafeeri, S. M. (2025). Mega Journal of Case Reports, 8(5), 2001–2005.

• A 28-year-old presented with severe breast pain misdiagnosed as mastitis, later identified via imaging as a lactational phlegmon.
• Conservative treatment with antibiotics and compresses avoided surgery.
• IBCLC Takeaway: Advocate for ultrasound in unresolved mastitis cases. Phlegmon can mimic abscess but may be treated non-invasively.

3️⃣ Peer Support & Community Interventions for Breastfeeding in the UK

Citation: Evans, C., Hargreaves, K., & Hoddinott, P. (2025). Maternal & Child Nutrition, 21(1), e13538. https://doi.org/10.1111/mcn.13538

• Scoping review of 21 systematic reviews found peer support improves breastfeeding when it's sustained and culturally tailored.
• Quality of evidence varies; systemic implementation and inclusivity are needed.
• IBCLC Takeaway: Champion peer support and community engagement. Push for better research and equity-focused program design.

4️⃣ Breastfeeding Education Gaps in South African Midwifery Training

Citation: Amegashie, L. Y., Tlou, B., & Mukumbang, F. C. (2025). BMC Medical Education, 25, Article 341. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-025-07341-1

• Midwifery students reported fragmented, insufficient breastfeeding training, relying heavily on personal experiences.
• Strong desire for more practical, skills-based learning.
• IBCLC Takeaway: Collaborate with midwifery educators. Mentor students and strengthen clinical breastfeeding education to improve early care.

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Credits:

🎙 Hosted by: Margaret Salty

🎵 Music by: The Magnifiers, “My Time Traveling Machine”

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#BehindTheLatch #BreastfeedingResearch #IBCLC #GroupBStrep #Phlegmon #MidwiferyEducation #PeerSupport #LactationCare #BreastfeedingSupport #MilkSafety

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