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Updated: Jun 19, 2026
05:04
A Common Marmoset Model of Mother-Infant Intervention for Breastfeeding Disorders in the Presence of Paternal Inhibition and Maternal Neglect
Published on: September 22, 2023
Maternal return to work and breastfeeding: a population-based cohort study.
Chao-Hua Chuang1, Pei-Jen Chang, Yi-Chun Chen
1Department of Nursing, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan County 71101, Taiwan. chchuang@mail.cjcu.edu.tw
International Journal of Nursing Studies
|October 13, 2009
Summary
Returning to work early, especially within six months, hinders breastfeeding initiation and continuation. Comprehensive strategies are needed to support working mothers in breastfeeding practices.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Maternal and Child Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Increasing maternal labor force participation correlates with declining breastfeeding rates.
- Breastfeeding is crucial for infant health and development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between maternal return to work and breastfeeding practices.
- To identify potential barriers to breastfeeding for working mothers.
Main Methods:
- Prospective longitudinal study involving 24,200 mother-infant pairs recruited in 2005.
- Data collected via home interviews at 6 and 18 months postpartum using structured questionnaires.
- High completion rates achieved: 87.8% at 6 months and 83.4% at 18 months.
Main Results:
- Early return to work (≤1 month) was associated with lower breastfeeding initiation rates.
- Mothers returning to work within 1 year weaned infants significantly earlier.
- Maternal leave duration impacted breastfeeding continuation, with longer leave associated with sustained breastfeeding.
Conclusions:
- Early maternal return to work, particularly within six months, presents a significant barrier to initiating and maintaining breastfeeding.
- A multifaceted strategy is essential to promote breastfeeding among working women, from pregnancy through their return to work.
- Healthcare professionals, especially nurses, play a vital role in advocating for and supporting breastfeeding mothers in various settings.
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