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Maternal and Child Health Journal
Published in: Maternal and Child Health Journal 3/2008

01-05-2008

Understanding Breastfeeding Initiation and Continuation in Rural Communities: A Combined Qualitative/Quantitative Approach

Authors: Kori B. Flower, Michael Willoughby, R. Jean Cadigan, Eliana M. Perrin, Greg Randolph, The Family Life Project Investigative Team

Published in: Maternal and Child Health Journal | Issue 3/2008

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Abstract

Objective

To determine factors associated with breastfeeding in rural communities.

Methods

We combined qualitative and quantitative data from the Family Life Project, consisting of: (1) a longitudinal cohort study (N = 1292) of infants born September 2003–2004 and (2) a parallel ethnographic study (N = 30 families). Demographic characteristics, maternal and infant health factors, and health services were used to predict breastfeeding initiation and discontinuation using logistic and Cox regression models, respectively. Ethnographic interviews identified additional reasons for not initiating or continuing breastfeeding.

Results

Fifty-five percent of women initiated breastfeeding and 18% continued for at least 6 months. Maternal employment at 2 months and receiving WIC were associated with decreased breastfeeding initiation and continuation. Ethnographic data suggested that many women had never even considered breastfeeding and often discontinued breastfeeding due to discomfort, embarrassment, and lack of assistance.

Conclusions

Breastfeeding rates in these rural communities lag behind national averages. Opportunities for increasing breastfeeding in rural communities include enhancing workplace support, maximizing the role of WIC, increasing hospital breastfeeding assistance, and creating a social environment in which breastfeeding is normative.
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Metadata
Title
Understanding Breastfeeding Initiation and Continuation in Rural Communities: A Combined Qualitative/Quantitative Approach
Authors
Kori B. Flower
Michael Willoughby
R. Jean Cadigan
Eliana M. Perrin
Greg Randolph
The Family Life Project Investigative Team
Publication date
01-05-2008
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Maternal and Child Health Journal / Issue 3/2008
Print ISSN: 1092-7875
Electronic ISSN: 1573-6628
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-007-0248-6

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