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Learning Objective 1: The learner will be able to describe factors that influence the decision to initiate exclusive breastfeeding in women from Kentucky.
Learning Objective 2: The learner will be able to describe differences of infant feeding by ethnic group in Kentucky area.
Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of initiation of exclusive breastfeeding and its association with socio-demographic, behavioral and reproductive factors.
Methods: A descriptive study was conducted with a convenience sample of 203 postpartum, multiethnic women who were hospitalized in a public Kentucky hospital. Data on socio-demographic, reproductive characteristics, and smoking were obtained. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and T-tests.
Result: Of the total sample, 62% percent initiated breastfeeding in the hospital; however, only 59% reported exclusive breastfeeding. Women who initiated exclusive breastfeeding were more educated (X2 36.19, df 2, p < .0001) and older (X2 9.93, df 1, p =.001) than women who selected formula feeding. Women who selected formula feeding were more likely to smoke (X2 19.46, df 1, p <.0001) and live with someone who smoked (X2 25.51, df 1, p <.0001). Women with prenatal risk factors were more likely to supplement with formula or exclusively formula feed (X2 14.20, df 2, p < .001). Exclusive breastfeeding was predominantly initiated by White mothers (X2 8.03, df 2, p < .01); while Hispanic mothers were more likely to supplement with formula (X2 35.28, df 2, p < .0001); and African American mothers were more likely to formula feed (X2 13.52, df 2, p < .001).
Conclusions: These findings confirm that high level of education is positively associated with exclusive breastfeeding; while maternal smoking status may deter women from breastfeeding. Development of appropriated nursing interventions to combat barriers to exclusive breastfeeding should considerate differences among ethnic groups.