Educational quality of YouTube videos on enhancing lactation in postpartum mothers: a cross-sectional observational study

Authors : Mustafa Törehan Aslan, Mehmet Semih Demirtaş
Pages : 703-708
Doi:10.38053/acmj.1753591
View : 51 | Download : 70
Publication Date : 2025-09-15
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :Aims: YouTube is a popular source of breastfeeding advice, but the quality of videos on increasing breast milk supply remains uncertain. We assessed the reliability and educational value of such content. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, YouTube was searched between July 2024 and January 2025 for the keyword “increasing breast milk.” An independent neonatologist and a social pediatrician evaluated each video using three validated tools: The DISCERN score (15-item quality measure, 1–5 per item; total 15–75), Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmarks (0–4), and Global Quality Score (GQS, 1–5). Interrater reliability was evaluated with intraclass correlation. Results: The 172 videos had a mean duration of 8.5±7.0 minutes (range 1.0–60.0 minutes) and a mean view count of 60.000±210.000 (8–1.700.000). Videos from academic institutions scored higher (DISCERN 45±12; JAMA 2.5±0.8; GQS 3.5±1.0) than those by individuals (DISCERN 25±8; JAMA 1.0±0.6; GQS 1.8±0.7; p<0.001). Educational videos had significantly greater quality than testimonial or promotional videos (p<0.001). Longer videos correlated strongly with quality (r≈0.55–0.60, p<0.001), while views/likes showed weak associations (r≈0.20, p<0.05). Comments had no correlation. Conclusion: Most YouTube videos on breast milk supply are poor in quality and educational value. Trusted sources (academia, healthcare) provided better content, whereas individual/promotional videos were often unreliable. Healthcare providers should direct parents to credible resources and produce evidence-based materials to enhance online breastfeeding education.
Keywords : Emzirme, Anne Sütü, Galaktagog, Yenidoğan, Youtube, Eğitim

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