Perceptions of Breastfeeding and Infant Feeding Choice in a Group of Low-income Mid-Missouri Women

Abstract

This cross-sectional descriptive study investigated attitudes regarding breastfeeding in 69 low-income women presenting for prenatal care at a teaching facility in a small midwest United States community. Women were interviewed for demographic data, reproductive history, and experience with infant feeding. The sample was predominantly white and rural. Almost half stated an intent to breastfeed. Breastfeeding by the maternal grandmother and endorsement by a male partner were associated positively with intent to breastfeed. Subjects were asked to estimate ease, convenience, and freedom associated with breastfeeding. Intenders viewed breastfeeding as significantly easier (p<.01), more convenient (p<.0001), and more conducive to freedom (p<.0001) than women who did not intend to breastfeed. Subjects also completed an investigatordesigned tool, the Breastfeeding Behavior Questionnaire. Results indicated relatively neutral attitudes regarding breastfeeding.