IV. Effects of Silver Nitrate Prophylaxis on Mother-Infant Relationship

The effects of silver nitrate versus Hexarginum on maternal behaviour during care and breast-feeding were examined in a double-blind study of 65 mother-infant pairs. Observations and interviews took place on day 4 or 5 post partum. A follow-up interview was conducted 6–8 weeks later. The Neonatal Perception Inventories (Broussard) were used on both occasions. Mothers of infants in the silver nitrate group had significantly less eye contact with their newborns during breast-feeding than those in the Hexarginum group. This difference was even greater for mothers with complicated deliveries. Since eye-contact behaviours were infrequent, the results should be judged with caution. The maternal attitude towards the child, delivery, and post-partum care as expressed at 4–5 days and at 6 weeks did not differ between the groups. The frequency of breast-feeding at 6 weeks was similar. Eye prophylaxis was administered about 2 hours after birth and rooming-in was practised in the maternity wards. It is discussed whether the postponed Credé prophylaxis and other contact-facilitating routines contributed to lessen possible adverse effects of the silver nitrate prophylaxis.