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Open Access 26-12-2023

Mothers’ Experiences During the 2022 Infant Formula Shortage in Washington D.C.

Authors: Allison C. Sylvetsky, Sarah A. Hughes, Janae T. Kuttamperoor, Hailey R. Moore, Jeanne Murphy, Jennifer Sacheck, Emily R. Smith

Published in: Maternal and Child Health Journal | Issue 5/2024

Abstract

Introduction

An unprecedented shortage of infant formula occurred in the United States (U.S.) in 2022 and posed widespread challenges to infant feeding nationwide. The purpose of this study is to investigate mothers’ experiences during the 2022 infant formula shortage and its perceived impacts on infants’ diet and health.

Methods

Mothers (n = 45) of infants under 8 months old from Washington D.C. were invited to participate in a virtual study meeting during the summer of 2022. Mothers completed surveys regarding their demographics, infants’ anthropometrics, infant feeding practices, information they have received about infant feeding, and knowledge about infant feeding practices. They then participated in a qualitative interview about their experiences during the infant formula shortage.

Results

Overarching themes were: the shortage (1) had adverse impacts on mothers’ mental and emotional health; (2) had significant financial and intangible costs; (3) led to changes in infant feeding practices; (4) social and family networks were helpful in navigating the shortage; and (5) mothers felt fortunate to have resources to breastfeed and/or obtain formula.

Discussion

The infant formula shortage adversely impacted mothers’ mental and emotional health, and was costly, in terms of financial and intangible costs. Findings demonstrate the need to develop clinical and policy approaches to support mothers in feeding their infants and provide education about safe infant feeding practices.

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Title: Mothers’ Experiences During the 2022 Infant Formula Shortage in Washington D.C.
Authors: Allison C. Sylvetsky
Sarah A. Hughes
Janae T. Kuttamperoor
Hailey R. Moore
Jeanne Murphy
Jennifer Sacheck
Emily R. Smith
Publication date: 26-12-2023
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Maternal and Child Health Journal / Issue 5/2024
Print ISSN: 1092-7875
Electronic ISSN: 1573-6628
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-023-03860-9

ERS Congress 2024

Springer Medicine

Mothers’ Experiences During the 2022 Infant Formula Shortage in Washington D.C.

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Discussion

ERS Congress 2024

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Discussion

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