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Review
. 2025 May 23;13(11):1225.
doi: 10.3390/healthcare13111225.

A Systematic Review of Multifactorial Barriers Related to Breastfeeding

Amparo Moret-Tatay  1 , Marcelino Pérez-Bermejo  2 , Adalberto Asins-Cubells  3 , Carmen Moret-Tatay  4 , María Teresa Murillo-Llorente  2
Affiliations
Review

A Systematic Review of Multifactorial Barriers Related to Breastfeeding

Amparo Moret-Tatay et al. Healthcare (Basel). .

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the best way to feed infants and has numerous health benefits for both mothers and infants. However, despite its well-documented benefits, breastfeeding rates remain lower than recommended in many parts of the world. This systematic review examines factors that create barriers for mothers trying to breastfeed, covering studies published between 2003 and 2025. Methods: A total of 18 studies were included in this systematic review, selected from the following databases: PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Academic Search Complete, Communication and Mass Media Complete, ERIC, SocINDEX, and CINAHL. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion criteria, focusing on peer-reviewed articles that examined factors influencing breastfeeding practices. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers using standardized tools. The review analyzed personal, cultural, economic, and health-related barriers. Results: The analysis revealed multiple barriers to breastfeeding, categorized into personal, sociocultural, economic, and healthcare-related factors. Common challenges included a lack of counseling, latching difficulties, insufficient workplace support, and cultural misconceptions. The heterogeneity of study designs posed challenges in synthesizing the findings. Conclusions: More targeted policies and programs are needed to address these barriers and help mothers succeed in breastfeeding. Improving breastfeeding outcomes worldwide will require better healthcare, social support, and an understanding of cultural influences.

Keywords: barriers; breastfeeding; healthcare support; infant nutrition; lactation; maternal health.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
PRISMA flow diagram for systematic review: identification, screening, eligibility, and inclusion of studies in the current study.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Manuscripts included in the review on a 10-year scale classified by category (healthcare, sociocultural, and workplace).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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