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[Duration of breast feeding]
V Vestermark1, C K Høgdall, G Plenov
1Gynaekologisk-obstetrisk afdeling, Centralsygehuset Hillerød.
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|October 21, 1991
Summary
This study tracked 366 mothers for three years, finding that while breast-feeding is popular, many mothers do not achieve their intended duration. Maternal factors like age and socioeconomic status influence breast-feeding length.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Maternal Health
Context:
- Breast-feeding duration is a key indicator of infant nutrition and maternal health practices.
- Understanding factors influencing breast-feeding duration is crucial for public health initiatives.
- Previous trends indicated varying durations, necessitating updated longitudinal data.
Purpose:
- To investigate the total duration of breast-feeding in a cohort of mothers.
- To identify correlations between breast-feeding duration and maternal characteristics.
- To assess maternal intentions versus actual breast-feeding duration.
Summary:
- A longitudinal study followed 366 mothers for three years postpartum.
- Breast-feeding rates declined significantly over time: 73% at 3 months, 52% at 6 months, 20% at 1 year, and 1% beyond 3 years.
- Duration correlated with maternal age, education, and socioeconomic status; mothers with better conditions and prior breast-feeding experience breast-fed longer.
- Maternal intention for 6+ months of breast-feeding was high (89%), but only 39% achieved their goal.
- Solid food introduction was common around 4 months, with only 4% exclusively breast-feeding at 6 months.
Impact:
- Findings highlight the need for improved support systems to help mothers achieve their desired breast-feeding duration.
- Identifies specific maternal groups who may require targeted interventions to prolong breast-feeding.
- Provides valuable data for public health policy and pediatric recommendations regarding infant feeding practices.