<![CDATA[Exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life is an important intervention for improving infant health and protection, yet sustaining exclusive breastfeeding remains a challenge in many countries. Healthcare worker support plays an important role in helping mothers overcome breastfeeding difficulties, although the effectiveness of different support approaches varies across studies. This study aimed to analyze and synthesize empirical evidence regarding the effectiveness of healthcare worker support in improving and sustaining exclusive breastfeeding up to six months of age. A Systematic Literature Review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) approach. Literature was searched through Google Scholar using combinations of keywords related to healthcare workers, breastfeeding support, lactation counseling, breastfeeding education, and exclusive breastfeeding. Following identification, screening, and eligibility assessment, 16 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the synthesis. The findings indicated that healthcare worker support through education, counseling, breastfeeding technique assistance, home visits, community-based support, and digital media was generally associated with improved exclusive breastfeeding practices. Greater effectiveness was observed when support was structured, repeated, continuous, individualized, and responsive to mothers’ needs. Effectiveness was also influenced by healthcare worker competency, family support, available resources, and service conditions. Healthcare worker support is an important component in improving exclusive breastfeeding and should be provided continuously from pregnancy through the postpartum period.]]>
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