Changes in breastfeeding practices in Norwegian maternity wards: national surveys 1973, 1982 and 1991

Total breastfeeding rates in Norway increased from < 30% at 12 weeks in 1968 to > 80% in 1991. Concomitant changes in routines related to breastfeeding in all Norwegian maternity wards were examined in 1973, 1982 and 1991. Head midwives responding to identical survey questionnaires described "usual practices" in their wards. The considerable changes over these 18 years reflected international recommendations such as those summarized in WHO/UNICEF's 1989 Joint Statement and "Ten steps to successful breastfeeding". Undisturbed and prolonged contact between mother and baby became more common, as did more respect for the needs of the nursing couple, and more individualized care. In responses to open-ended questions, many respondents expressed a positive attitude towards these changes, while "clusters" of negative attitudes were also seen. As research on inborn infant behaviour and mother-infant interaction proceeds, the present survey suggests areas where further information may benefit both mothers and health workers.