Implications for practice
We identified no randomised controlled trials to guide a decision on whether antenatal breast examination should be recommended for the promotion of breastfeeding.
Implications for research
There is a need to evaluate the potential harms and benefits of antenatal breast examination. In particular, countries that recommend routine antenatal breast examination should conduct appropriate studies to justify a procedure that some women may find intrusive. Studies should include an assessment of other effects of antenatal breast examination, such as satisfaction with care and success of breastfeeding.
The effectiveness (or lack thereof) of antenatal breast examination on the initiation of breastfeeding needs to be assessed using randomised controlled trials that compare women who do and do not receive breast examinations. Studies may or may not include other interventions to promote breastfeeding. Consideration should also be given to trials which assess the effectiveness of antenatal breast examination for the detection of breast cancer, investigating whether antenatal breast examination impacts disease outcome.