Understanding Breastfeeding Practices in Tennessee: Goals, Duration, and Reasons for Discontinuation
Amir Alakaam1, Chia-Lin Chang2, Hannah Jeffery1
1University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
Journal of Appalachian Health
|June 8, 2026
Summary
Many individuals struggle to meet exclusive breastfeeding goals due to lack of support and public discomfort. Improved healthcare provider education and public acceptance are crucial for successful breastfeeding journeys.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Maternal and Child Health
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Breastfeeding is recognized as the optimal infant nutrition source, providing significant health advantages.
- Understanding factors influencing breastfeeding practices is vital for public health initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine breastfeeding goals, exclusivity, and duration.
- To explore factors influencing breastfeeding practices among individuals in Tennessee.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study with 1,249 participants.
- Data collected June-September 2021, analyzed September 2022-March 2023.
- Descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and ANOVA were utilized.
Main Results:
- 32% of participants did not meet their goal for six months of exclusive breastfeeding.
- Key barriers included healthcare provider promotion of formula (44%) and discomfort breastfeeding in public (41%).
- Lack of hospital staff support and public discomfort were significantly associated with early discontinuation of exclusive breastfeeding.
Conclusions:
- Enhanced education and support from healthcare providers are essential.
- Normalizing breastfeeding in public spaces is crucial for improving outcomes.
- Interventions should address both provider support and public acceptance to help individuals achieve breastfeeding goals.
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