Breastfeeding duration in an Australian population: the influence of modifiable antenatal factors

J Hum Lact. 2004 Feb;20(1):30-8. doi: 10.1177/0890334403261109.

Abstract

Despite well-documented health benefits of breastfeeding for mothers and babies, most women discontinue breastfeeding before the recommended 12 months to 2 years. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of modifiable antenatal variables on breastfeeding outcomes. A prospective, longitudinal study was conducted with 300 pregnant, Australian women. Questionnaires containing variables of interest were administered to women during their last trimester; infant feeding method was assessed at 1 week and 4 months postpartum. Intended breastfeeding duration and breastfeeding self-efficacy were identified as the most significant modifiable variables predictive of breastfeeding outcomes. Mothers who intended to breastfeed for < 6 months were 2.4 times as likely to have discontinued breastfeeding at 4 months compared to those who intended to breastfeed for > 12 months (35.7% vs 87.5%). Similarly, mothers with high breastfeeding self-efficacy were more likely to be breastfeeding compared to mothers with low self-efficacy (79.3% vs 50.0%).

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Breast Feeding / psychology*
  • Breast Feeding / statistics & numerical data
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Mothers / psychology
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care
  • Prospective Studies
  • Queensland
  • Self Efficacy*
  • Time Factors