[Role of the mother's family environment in the initiation of breastfeeding]

Abstract

Introduction: World Health Organization guidelines recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of the mother's personal circle and coworkers initiation of breastfeeding.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in two maternity hospitals in Lyon and in the Paris area. The questionnaire described the characteristics of the couple and the newborn, and the mother's decision concerning the type of feeding. This study was approved by the ethics committees of the two maternity hospitals. Statistical analysis was performed with SAS 9.2 software.

Results: The sample included 249 mothers recruited during the post-partum period. A majority of women (85%) decided on the type of feeding after discussion with a member of their personal circle or coworkers. Twelve percent of women did not know the health professionals' opinion concerning breastfeeding. Compared to women who chose breast or bottle feeding, women opting for mixed feeding made their decision later during pregnancy. The family environment, especially the husband, appeared to have the greatest influence on this decision. Encouragement from other family members or coworkers was also associated with higher breastfeeding initiation rates.

Conclusion: These results suggest the need for more intensive breastfeeding promotion by health care professionals while taking into account the mother's and the family's opinions.