Knowledge and Perception of Breastfeeding Practices in Hispanic Mothers in Association with Their Preferred Language for Communication

Abstract

Abstract

Economically disadvantaged minority mothers with limited proficiency in English show suboptimal breastfeeding rates. In the present survey, the knowledge and perception of Hispanic mothers regarding their breastfeeding practices were analyzed in association with their language preference for communication. Among the mostly Hispanic-origin Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children–eligible mothers surveyed at our pediatric clinic, 109 were Spanish-respondent Hispanics (Group 1), 31 were English-respondent Hispanics (Group 2), and 56 were U.S.-born non-Hispanics (Group 3). Overall, 70–90% of mothers reported understanding the beneficial effect of breastmilk, thought breastfeeding was good to do, and had discussed breastfeeding with their obstetricians and pediatricians. Groups 1 and 2 mothers were more likely to have predecided to breastfeed their infant, to feel comfortable about breastfeeding at the doctor's office, and to have discussed with their mothers about how they had been fed. However, they were less likely to be able to identify who to approach for breastfeeding advice. A higher proportion of the Group 1 mothers admitted to inadequate breastfeeding knowledge, unfamiliarity with “latch on,” and inability to identify who had educated them about breastfeeding. We conclude that in economically disadvantaged Hispanic mothers, a preference for communication in Spanish is associated with limited breastfeeding knowledge and lack of breastfeeding-related educational networks. Language preference should be addressed while providing breastfeeding education and support for Hispanic mothers to help improve their understanding and breastfeeding networks.