Examining Supports and Barriers to Breastfeeding through a Socio-Ecological Lens

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Early breastfeeding cessation is a societal concern given the massive benefits associated with breastfeeding for mother and child. More effective interventions are needed to increase breastfeeding duration. Prior to developing such interventions more research is needed to examine breastfeeding supports and barriers from the perspective of breastfeeding stakeholders. One such framework that can be utilized is Brofenbrenner’s Social Ecological Model. The purpose of this study was to examine supports and barriers to breastfeeding based on the Social Ecological Model. METHODS: A total of 49 representatives participated in a telephonic interview. Interviewees represented various levels of the model based on their current breastfeeding experience (i.e., mother or significant other) or occupation. A direct content analysis was performed as well as a constant comparative analysis to determine differences between level representatives. RESULTS: Common supports identified by all interviewees were in-hospital breastfeeding education (organizational level) and the existence of breastfeeding protection legislation (policy level). Barriers identified by all interviewees included a lack of support (interpersonal level), lack of hospital resources (organizational level) and lack of specificity within the existing breastfeeding protection legislation (policy level). Other identified supports and barriers varied by representatives for each level of the model. CONCLUSION: Breastfeeding organizations such as state and local coalitions should utilize this information to guide future strategy as well as develop interventions to eliminate the disparities between breastfeeding mothers’ perceptions and the stakeholders working to increase breastfeeding initiation and duration rate.

Social Media Usage as a Form of Breastfeeding Support Among Black Mothers: A Scoping Review of the Literature

“…Results are comparable to those of previous studies, which indicate social support as a facilitator of breastfeeding initiation and continuance. 16,41,42 Positive interactions within online breastfeeding communities can increase breastfeeding rates among Black women. The additional support provided through social media platforms can elicit confidence and empower Black women in their breastfeeding abilities.…”