Presented in: Poster Session Saturday, May 2, 1998, Poster number 314

† 1340

It is known that nourishment with human milk can minimize morbidities associated with high-risk neonates and infants. Nationwide, 54% of all mothers choose to initiate breastfeeding; at our institution that number is 40%. Infants born to adolescent mothers are one of these high-risk groups, yet little is known about the prevalence of breastfeeding, motivators, or effects of intervention in this age group. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken to determine the baseline attitudes towards breastfeeding among 29 nulliparous females, aged 13-19 years, with the goal of elucidating those factors most associated with a decision to breastfeed. The research instrument included 39 statements scored on a 5-point Likert scale, followed by 18 open and closed ended questions administered by the PI. Respondents were primarily single, Afro-American students, 38% insured by Medicaid and 24% uninsured. 45% of respondents would choose artificial milk to nourish their infants, 28% were undecided, 14% would choose both human and artificial milks, and 14% would breastfeed. Data were then examined to detect who or what most influenced this decision, the role of exposure to breastfeeding, concerns regarding quality and/or quantity of breast milk, and breastfeeding's social acceptability. Likert scale questions were divided into the following positive vs. negative categories: self image, process perceptions, emotional perceptions, and outside influences. Negative attitudes were identified in responses to the following statements: “My boyfriend/husband wants me to breastfeed.” “Breastfeeding makes your breasts sag.” “I have heard from someone that breastfeeding hurts.” “No one else could feed my baby.” “I would have to eat differently.” “My mother wants me to bottle feed.” 62% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that they did not know enough about breastfeeding. We conclude that our population of teenagers suffer from misinformation about breastfeeding and have had little exposure to it. Our data also suggest that breastfeeding prevalence may be increased in this population through education and exposure to positive role models.

† Poster Session ♦ Poster Symposium · Platform Session