Breastfeeding, brain activation to own infant cry, and maternal sensitivity

2011382 citationsJournal Articlegreen Open Access

Authors

Pilyoung Kim · Cornell University

Ruth Feldman · Yale University

Linda C. Mayes · Anna Freud Centre

Virginia Eicher · Yale University

Nancy J. Thompson · Yale University

James F. Leckman · Yale University

James E. Swain · University of Michigan–Ann Arbor

Abstract

Results suggest links between breastfeeding and greater response to infant cues in brain regions implicated in maternal-infant bonding and empathy during the early postpartum. Such brain activations may facilitate greater maternal sensitivity as infants enter their social world.

Topics & Keywords

Infant Health and Development Neuroendocrine regulation and behavior Breastfeeding Practices and Influences

UN Sustainable Development Goals

Good health and well-being

Publication Details

Published in: Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry

Volume 52, Issue 8, pp. 907-915

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7610.2011.02406.x

Field-Weighted Citation Impact: 34.10