University campus breastfeeding, knowledge, and perceptions of support: An exploratory study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Maternal and Child Health

Background:

• Breastfeeding success is influenced by the socio-ecological environment, not just biology.
• Normalizing breastfeeding in communities, including university campuses, requires understanding current attitudes.
• University campuses present unique environments for studying breastfeeding support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore campus community knowledge, awareness, and attitudes regarding breastfeeding.
• To identify available resources and applicable laws supporting breastfeeding on university campuses.
• To pinpoint barriers affecting breastfeeding initiatives within university settings.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional, self-reporting study design.
• Utilized the Iowa Infant Feeding Attitude Scale and an adapted Breastfeeding Behavior Questionnaire.
• Surveyed a convenience sample on two university campuses in the southern United States.

Main Results:

• Decreased awareness of protective breastfeeding laws identified as a barrier.
• Limited availability of private lactation spaces noted.
• Insufficient public appreciation for breastfeeding's benefits to parent and infant.

Conclusions:

• Findings highlight a need for enhanced breastfeeding strategies on university campuses.
• Improving awareness of laws and resources can support breastfeeding initiatives.
• Addressing public perception is key to normalizing breastfeeding in academic communities.