Breastfeeding: How is it related to food insecurity and other factors among low-income mothers?

Health Care Women Int. 2023 Mar;44(3):234-245. doi: 10.1080/07399332.2021.1929992. Epub 2021 Jul 19.

Abstract

A cross-sectional study was conducted to (1) examine breastfeeding initiation and continuation rates, and; (2) investigate association between food insecurity and breastfeeding status, among low-income mothers. Mothers of infants two-months or younger were recruited from a local pediatric clinic serving primarily low-income families. Upon giving consent, mothers were interviewed in-person or over the phone in either English or Spanish. Of the total 92 mothers interviewed, 90% initiated breastfeeding, but only 24% were doing exclusive breastfeeding at 2 months of infant's age. After controlling for socio-demographics, it was found that food-insecure mothers were less likely to continue with breastfeeding (β = -1.51, p = .024). Future research is warranted to understand pathways through which food insecurity affects breastfeeding and how this disparity can be prevented to ensure a safe and secure start for infants worldwide.

MeSH terms

  • Breast Feeding*
  • Child
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Food Insecurity
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Mothers*
  • Poverty