Breastfeeding benefits to child health are well recognized, and extensive efforts to promote breastfeeding have been implemented in many countries. Although breastfeeding duration has important health benefits, many mothers cease breastfeeding prematurely. To identify breastfeeding knowledge and practices, as well as barriers and facilitators, a population-based survey of 115 mothers of children under two years was conducted via oral interviews in a marginal community in Mexico. Fifty-five mothers (48.2%) were currently breastfeeding. All 55 initiated breastfeeding within 24 hours of birth. Of the 115 mothers interviewed, major reasons for breastfeeding reported by the mothers included: mother's desire to breastfeed, breastfeeding was "easier than bottle-feeding," "breastmilk is the best milk," and breastfeeding "prevents disease." Most mothers learned from family and friends, followed by health personnel and brochures. Mass media did not play an important role in this community. Factors influencing breastfeeding cessation included child not accepting the breast, child age, insufficient milk, mother working outside the home, child eating family diet, ill mother, and clinc/medical suggestion. Major factors facilitating breastfeeding continuation included primarily husband and family desire/support, followed by clinic/medical support, and having someone available to answer questions.
Learning Objectives: 1. Describe the frequency and duration of breastfeeding in a marginal community in Mexico. 2. Discuss mothers' breastfeeding knowledge, knowledge source, personal reasons for breastfeeding, and breastfeeding barriers and facilitators
Keywords: Breast Feeding, Child Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.