Maternal employment during the early postpartum period: effects on initiation and continuation of breast-feeding

Pediatrics. 1991 Mar;87(3):298-305.

Abstract

This study sought to determine whether and to what extent maternal employment in the early post-partum period is associated with the initiation and continuation of breast-feeding in a heterogeneous, urban population. A panel of women were interviewed twice during the first 3 months postpartum. In analyses adjusted for maternal demographic characteristics, there was no association between planning to be employed within the first 6 months postpartum and initiation of breast-feeding. However, actually being employed was significantly associated with cessation of breast-feeding as early as 2 or 3 months postpartum, even after adjustment for maternal demographic variables. Less than one half of mothers who were employed were still breast-feeding at the second postpartum interview, whereas two thirds of those who were not employed were still breast-feeding. Among employed mothers, working no more than 20 hours per week appeared to be protective for continued breast-feeding.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Black or African American
  • Breast Feeding*
  • Educational Status
  • Employment*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Postpartum Period / ethnology*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Regression Analysis
  • White People