Related Experiment Videos
Diaper choice. Too costly to bury
R M Rockney1, L Culpepper, G C Figueira
1Department of Pediatrics, Brown University, Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island, Pawtucket 02860.
Clinical Pediatrics
|August 1, 1991
Summary
Most mothers choose disposable diapers for convenience, while some prefer cloth for environmental reasons. Prenatal discussions and educational interventions did not significantly influence diaper choices.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Public Health
- Consumer Behavior
Background:
- Diaper choice between cloth and disposable options is a growing environmental concern.
- Mothers' decisions are influenced by convenience, cost, cleanliness, and environmental impact.
- Prenatal care providers rarely discuss diapering options with expectant parents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey mothers on their diaper choices and influencing factors.
- To assess the impact of an educational intervention on diaper selection.
- To identify demographic and knowledge-based associations with diaper choice.
Main Methods:
- A survey of 124 postpartum mothers regarding their diapering decisions.
- Analysis of factors associated with choosing cloth versus disposable diapers.
- Evaluation of an educational intervention's effect on diaper choice over two months.
Main Results:
- 77% of mothers planned to use disposable diapers, citing convenience and cleanliness.
- 22% opted for cloth or combination diapers, motivated by environmental concerns and cost.
- Older maternal age and prior use of cloth diapers were linked to cloth diaper selection.
- Educational interventions did not alter diaper choices at two months postpartum.
Conclusions:
- Mothers typically decide on diaper type before birth, prioritizing convenience.
- Environmental concerns are a factor for a minority choosing cloth diapers.
- Prenatal education and interventions showed limited impact on established diapering preferences.