All forms of extra support, analysed together, showed an
increase in the length of time women continued to breastfeed and the length of time women breastfed without introducing any other
types of liquids or foods. Support by both lay supporters and professionals had a positive impact on breastfeeding outcomes. Face-toface
support was associated with a larger treatment effect than telephone support. Support that is only offered if women seek help is
unlikely to be effective. This indicates that women should be offered predictable, scheduled, ongoing visits. Interventions providing
extra support had amore pronounced effect when background rates of breastfeeding initiation were high.Women’s views about support
interventions were not well reported in these studies. Support should be tailored to the setting and the needs of the population group.
Further research is needed to identify the aspects of support that are the most effective.