A study undertaken in Taiwan in 2001 is reported here with the aim of improving understanding about the socio-cultural factors that may affect a woman’s decisions about infant feeding.

Aim of the study: to determine the current status of infant feeding and the influences of basic socio-demographic characteristics and social support, as well as maternal knowledge and attitudes about breastfeeding.

Methods: A questionnaire including sociological, psychological and medical variables was completed by 195 mothers who were also interviewed individually in the maternity hospital. The mothers were divided into three groups: exclusive breastfeeding group, exclusive bottle feeding group, and mixed-feeding group.

Results: The independent factors that increased the likelihood of formula feeding during the first one to two months of life included (1) mothers were employed, (2) delivery by Cesarean section, (3) grandmothers or other people were the main child caretakers, (4) mothers did not attend the educational courses, and (5) lack of encouragement by the husband.

Conclusion: Health professionals and policy makers should be aware of the factors that affect a woman’s decisions about infant feeding including cultural background and media coverage.