Pressure to breastfeed among mothers of infants in Poland. A cross-sectional study

This study aimed to explore the phenomenon of pressure to breastfeed among mothers of infants in Poland. Specifically, we examined the prevalence of perceived pressure, its sources, and the sociodemographic factors associated with such pressure. Additionally, we investigated whether an inability to breastfeed affects maternal self-esteem.

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 586 mothers of infants aged 12 months or less, recruited via online parenting groups. Participants completed a 12-question survey addressing sociodemographic variables, breastfeeding encouragement, and perceived pressure to breastfeed. Statistical analyses were performed using Pearson's r, Student's t-test, Welch's t-test, and χ², where applicable. The effect size was calculated using Cohen's d, Cramer's V, and Phi, where applicable.

Among participants, 81.2% reported breastfeeding encouragement, primarily from healthcare professionals, scientific literature, and parenting campaigns. However, 39.2% perceived this encouragement as pressure. The primary sources of pressure included personal expectations and healthcare professionals. Younger mothers, those living in rural areas, and first-time mothers were more likely to feel pressured. Notably, 57.4% of non-breastfeeding mothers experienced pressure, compared to 26.3% of breastfeeding mothers. Mothers who experienced pressure also rated themselves as lesser mothers (mean score: 7.0 vs. 7.42 among those without pressure, p = 0.001 on a scale from 0 to 9).

Perceived pressure to breastfeed is prevalent in Poland, particularly among younger and first-time mothers. This pressure, coming from mothers themselves but also from healthcare professionals, can negatively impact maternal self-esteem and highlights the need for better education about infant feeding methods.