Different Feeding and Delivery Modes on Otitis Media with Effusion in Children: A Correlational Study

Abstract

Background: Otitis media with effusion (OME) is predominantly observed in children under six years of age and can lead to hearing loss or even severe complications, impacting speech and cognitive development. While the benefits of breastfeeding and natural birth in enhancing infant immunity and cognitive abilities are globally recognized, their effects on OME have been scarcely reported. Objective: To investigate the relationship between feeding methods and deliverymodes with OME in children, providing a basis for targeted prevention of OME. Methods: A total of 81 children diagnosed with OME, aged ≤6 years, from May 2022 to May 2023, were selected as the experimental group. Another 81 children without a history of OME served as the control group. A questionnaire was used to inquire about the feeding methods and delivery modes at birth, as reported by the guardians. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0 software. Results: Formula feeding and cesarean section are positively correlated with the incidence of OME (r > 0, p < 0.001), indicating that these factors contribute to an increased prevalence of the condition. A combined analysis of feeding and birth modes reveals that the incidence of OME is significantly higher in the group formula feeding is combined with cesarean section, suggesting that these effects are additive. Conclusions: Compared to formula feeding, breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of OME infections; similarly, natural birth is more effective than cesarean section in lowering the incidence of OME. When both feeding and delivery modes are considered together, breastfeeding can mitigate the risk of OME in children born via cesarean section, while natural birthcan decrease the risk associated with formula feeding children. Therefore, the methods of feeding and delivery modes are closely linked to the early incidence of OME in children, and continued promotion of breastfeeding and encouragement of natural birth should be prioritized in the future .