Characteristics of and Sources of Support for Women Who Breastfed Multiples for More than 12 Months

Abstract

Background and Objective:

Although rates of breastfeeding initiation for multiples may be similar to those of singletons, breastfeeding duration falls short. Evidence-based interventions tailored to families with multiples may help reduce the gap; however, these do not yet exist and will require a stronger knowledge base about factors related to successful breastfeeding of multiples for long durations.

To characterize mothers of multiples who breastfed for >12 months and identify support factors that were important.

Materials and Methods:

Mothers of multiples who breastfed for >12 months completed an online questionnaire about their breastfeeding experiences. Bivariate statistics and log-binomial regression were used to examine associations among maternal characteristics, influential factors, and sources of breastfeeding support.

Results:

This sample of 1,173 women commonly cited partner support, the nutritional/health benefits of breastfeeding, building a strong bond, and enjoyment of breastfeeding as important influences on their decision to breastfeed for >12 months. Younger women, women with less education, Hispanic or Latina women, and nonwhite women were more likely to indicate that cost was important in their decision to breastfeed for more than 12 months (all chi-square p < 0.02). Women with more children were less likely to discuss their decision with their friends or partner (e.g., women with 5+ versus 2 children, relative risk for partner = 0.65, 95% confidence interval: 0.52–0.81).

Conclusion:

Interventions to encourage long-term breastfeeding of multiples might consider promoting the cost, health, and relationship building benefits. Mobilizing a variety of supports—including partners and family—could help mothers of multiples sustain breastfeeding.