Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing
IN REVIEWVariables Associated With Breastfeeding Duration
Section snippets
Demographic Variables
Demographic variables that may influence breastfeeding duration are well established and include race, maternal age, marital status, level of education, socioeconomic status, and effects of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) (Table 1).
According to Augstein (1996), race is defined as a local geographic or global human population distinguished as a more or less distinct group by genetically transmitted physical characteristics. There is wide
Biological Variables
Biological variables that may influence breastfeeding duration outcomes include insufficient milk supply, infant health problems, maternal obesity, the physical challenges of breastfeeding, maternal smoking, parity, and vaginal or Cesarean delivery (Table 1). These issues are present in varying degrees among all populations of women.
In an integrative literature review, Wambach et al. (2005) summarized the major findings of research investigations associated with initiation and duration of
Social Variables
Social variables are also important to consider when studying breastfeeding duration, and relate to interactions, attitudes, behaviors, and relationships that occur between people. The social variables in this review included maternal work outside the home, number of working hours per week, breastfeeding support from the significant other, maternal grandmother and close friends, and inconsistent and appropriate support from health care professionals.
Maternal work outside the home is a critical
Psychological Variables
Several psychological variables are associated with breastfeeding duration, including prenatal maternal intention, interest in breastfeeding, and maternal confidence in ability to breastfeed. In their study of psychosocial factors on the duration of breastfeeding, Kronborg and Vaeth (2004) found that positive intent, attitudes, and beliefs all increased breastfeeding duration. In an Australian study to determine the factors associated with breastfeeding at 6 months postpartum, Forster,
Discussion
Breastfeeding initiation rates in America are currently 77%, higher than they have been since the mid-20th century. The United States has met the Healthy People 2010 initiative goal of a 75% breastfeeding initiation rate. Much research has focused on improving this initiation rate with good results. This success, however, should not mask the reality that rising initiation rates have not been accompanied by increased breastfeeding duration. Although every infant benefits from some breastfeeding,
Conclusion
Human lactation is a complex phenomenon influenced by factors that are demographic, biological, social, and psychological. Identifying variables associated with breastfeeding duration provides information and references for nurses and others interested in prolonging breastfeeding experiences for women and their infants. Recognizing these variables can guide the interventions that are provided by nurses and health care workers. This information may also be used to generate studies that focus on
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