Latina Mothers' Infant Feeding Experiences During the 2022 Formula Shortage

Abstract

Background: Mothers report feeling immense pressure to breastfeed their infants, and not doing so can be associated with stigma, shame, and judgment. Many Latina mothers struggle to meet their breastfeeding goals and substitute formula earlier than planned. During 2022, an infant formula recall caused a shortage and made acquiring formula difficult or impossible in many areas of the United States. This study explores Latina mothers' experiences with infant feeding during the time of the formula shortage.

Methods: In-depth interviews (N = 7) were conducted with Latina mothers who formula-fed during the shortage. Interviews were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Mean maternal age was 29.7 years, and mean infant age was 10.3 months. Three mothers were born in the United States, and 4 were immigrants.

Results: Thematic analysis generated 3 themes: (1) Fighting to breastfeed; (2) Breastfeeding is not the only way to be a "good" mother; and (3) No formula on the shelves. Participants described their determination to continue breastfeeding despite challenges before realizing that it limited their ability to care for their children. They discussed the emotional toll of the formula shortage and strategies for finding formula.

Conclusions: The findings emphasize the need for additional structural support for infant feeding in the United States to prevent future formula shortages and for better lactation care and mental health support for mothers who want to breastfeed.