Effect of the Knowledge and Attitudes of a Support Person on Maternal Feeding Choice

Abstract

Background:

Breastfeeding rates among urban, low-income populations are lower than the national average, and social support can affect breastfeeding initiation and duration both positively and negatively.

Research aim:

This study aimed to determine the effect of the presence of a support person and breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes of that person on a mother’s feeding choice and perceived level of support for her choice.

Methods:

Questionnaires were administered to 192 mothers receiving care for their infants in the Pediatric Practice at University Hospitals Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio, along with 74 adults accompanying these mothers. Data on demographics, feeding characteristics, and breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes were collected.

Results:

Analysis of the entire group of mothers found that breastfeeding-supportive knowledge and attitudes were an independent predictor of exclusive breastfeeding (odds ratio [OR] = 1.89, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.38, 2.60]) and any breastfeeding (OR = 2.28, 95% CI [1.62, 3.21]). The presence of an accompanying adult was not related to feeding choice. Analysis of the subgroup of mothers with surveyed accompanying adults found independent predictors of any breastfeeding include maternal intention to breastfeed (OR = 23.68, 95% CI [1.48, 377.6]) and breastfeeding-supportive knowledge and attitudes of the mother (OR = 2.71, 95% CI [1.36, 5.40]) and the accompanying adult (OR = 2.78, 95% CI [1.17, 6.60]). The only independent predictor of exclusive breastfeeding was maternal intention to breastfeed (OR = 7.64, 95% CI [2.22, 26.3]). The majority of mothers (91%) felt supported, regardless of presence or absence of an accompanying adult.

Conclusion:

These findings emphasize the importance of breastfeeding education for mothers and their support persons.