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Battering and breastfeeding in a WIC population
L F Bullock1, M K Libbus, M R Sable
1Sinclair School of Nursing, University of Missouri, Columbia, USA. LBullock@missouri.edu
Summary
Domestic violence victims were not less likely to choose breastfeeding. A study found no association between abuse and infant feeding choices, indicating maternal concern for the child may override fears of control.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Sociology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Domestic violence is a significant public health issue affecting women's reproductive health.
- Previous research has not extensively explored the impact of domestic violence on infant feeding choices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between domestic violence victimization and the selection of breastfeeding as an infant feeding method.
- To determine if women experiencing abuse are less likely to choose breastfeeding compared to non-abused women.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 212 women at Women, Infants and Children (WIC) clinics in the Midwestern United States.
- Informed consent was obtained, and the Abuse Assessment Screen was administered via interview.
- Data collected included history of abuse, intended feeding choice, and previous breastfeeding experience.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant association was found between current or past domestic violence and infant feeding choices.
- Women reporting abuse breastfed their infants in similar proportions to women not reporting abuse.
Conclusions:
- The study's findings suggest that maternal concern for infant well-being may be a stronger determinant of feeding choice than experiences of abuse.
- This initial inquiry highlights that abuse does not necessarily preclude breastfeeding, challenging potential assumptions.