Learning Objective #1: The learner will be able to list the two modifiable risk factors used in this study and their proposed relationships to breastfeeding longevity.

Learning Objective #2: The learner will be able to identify the measurement tools used to score the two modifiable risk factors highlighted in this study.

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Abstract Background: Concern for low breastfeeding initiation and duration rates in the United States prompted this study. Breastfeeding is vital to the health and wellbeing of not only the infants and their mothers but to our society as a whole. Our children are our future. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationships of 3 variables. They are: maternal perception of breastfeeding satisfaction, maternal assessment of breastfeeding support and breastfeeding longevity. A comparison of two groups and the timing of breastfeeding initiation and duration will also be studied. Implications for changes in hospital and nursing practices will be highlighted. Method: This proposed study will be a non-experimental, retrospective and correlational. Postpartum breastfeeding mothers will be sent a postal survey one year after delivery. Information will be obtained at that time only, thus this study is cross sectional in nature. Two questionnaires will be used to assess maternal perception of breastfeeding satisfaction (MBFES) and support (PASS). Setting and Sample: The study will be done at a local community hospital in Southern California. Up to 2000 deliveries are done yearly. A power analysis shows that a sample of two hundred women is needed for this study. All women who state their desire to breastfeed will be asked to sign a consent which will allow us to contact them in a year by postal service. Ethical considerations: No name will be required with the return of the questionnaires, the sources will remain anonymous. Dissemination: Results of this proposal and study will be reported at the Sigma Theta Tau Leadership conference and may be published in journals of interest.