Factors influencing continuation of breastfeeding in a cohort of women

Abstract

The objective of this study was to prospectively explore the influence of women's experiences in preparing for and establishing breastfeeding on the duration of breastfeeding. A cohort of 490 women was surveyed at intervals during pregnancy and after giving birth. Data were collected on breastfeeding outcomes and experiences and analyzed using multiple logistic regression. After controlling for sociodemographic variables, women were less likely to be still fully breastfeeding at 6 to 10 weeks postpartum if they believed they needed more breastfeeding information prior to delivery or had experienced breastfeeding problems. Women were less likely to be fully breastfeeding at 4 months postpartum if they had experienced breastfeeding problems. This prospective study demonstrated the influence of women's preparedness for breastfeeding and their experiences in establishing breastfeeding on breastfeeding duration. Improvements in prenatal education about breastfeeding and management of breastfeeding problems are likely to increase breastfeeding duration.