Postpartum Deworming: Improving Breastfeeding and Optimizing Infant Growth

Postpartum Deworming: Improving Breastfeeding and Optimizing Infant Growth

Women of reproductive age are considered a high-risk group for worm infections by the World Health Organization. Maternal infection and anemia contribute to infant malnutrition by affecting milk quality and quantity, and duration of exclusive breastfeeding. To date, no study has investigated the health benefits of postpartum deworming to infants or mothers. A randomized controlled trial will be conducted in Peru to investigate the effectiveness of integrating deworming into routine postpartum care. The primary measure of effect will be infant weight gain between birth and six months of age. Other infant and maternal health indicators will also be ascertained.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Deliver at Hospital Iquitos
• Plan to reside in Iquitos or neighbouring area for the next 24 months
• Able to communicate in Spanish

Exclusion Criteria:

• Deliver multiples
• Delivery a stillborn or an infant with a serious congenital medical condition
• Transfered to another hospital prior to discharge