The Trends and Hotspots of Research on Lactation in Migrant Women: A Bibliometric Analysis (1980–2024 Years)

Abstract

Background: The trends and focal points of studies on lactation in migrant women contribute to a deeper understanding of this field. Research Aim: This study, conducted from a macro-level perspective, aims to comprehensively examine the primary focal points, trends, and depth of global research on the lactation experiences of migrant women. Methods: Synonyms for the keywords “migrant, woman, and lactation” were standardized using Boolean search operators. A literature search was then conducted in the Web of Science database on January 6, 2025. Articles were then downloaded and analyzed using RStudio (Version 1.4.1717) and the “biblioshiny for bibliometrix” application, an R-based bibliometric analysis tool. The PRISMA 2020 checklist was used solely to guide the transparent reporting of the search and screening process. Results: 275 articles were selected, with English-language articles appearing in 166 different journals between 1980 and 2024. The highest number of publications occurred in 2018. The International Breastfeeding Journal was the most prolific in terms of publications, while Pediatrics received the highest number of citations. The most cited article was titled “Couples’ immigration status and ethnicity as determinants of breastfeeding.” The most frequently used keywords were “migrant, duration, and infant,” while trending topics included “women, duration, and health.” Thematic mapping revealed that core themes of the field were women, duration, health, risk, children, infants, migration, mortality, and malnutrition. Conclusion: This study maps global research trends on lactation among migrant women, identifying key thematic emphases and gaps within the literature. The findings highlight an outcome-focused and predominantly descriptive evidence landscape, while pointing to the need for more intervention- and implementation-oriented research to advance culturally responsive breastfeeding support.