Caidon Iwuagwu BS , Melissa J. Chen MD, MPH , Adrienne E. Hoyt-Austin DO, MAS , Laura Kair MD, MAS , Margaret Fix MPH , Eleanor Bimla Schwarz MD, MS
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Introduction
We assessed awareness of the maternal health benefits of lactation among a sample of nulliparous pregnant individuals in the United States, identified variables associated with awareness of these benefits, and examined whether awareness of these benefits impacts breastfeeding attitudes or intentions.
Methods
We administered a web-based survey to nulliparous U.S.-born individuals carrying a singleton gestation of at least 28 weeks. We assessed awareness of the maternal health benefits of lactation using 10 items to create a summative score. We examined variation in awareness of these benefits by demographic characteristics, health insurance, and personal or family health history and used multivariable models to estimate associations between awareness of the maternal health benefits of lactation and breastfeeding intentions.
Results
Of the 675 individuals invited to complete surveys, 451 (67%) responded. Only 50% were aware that breastfeeding lowers maternal risk of breast cancer; fewer were aware that breastfeeding lowers the risk of ovarian cancer (35%), diabetes (27%), and hypertension and heart disease (26%). Awareness of the maternal benefits of lactation did not vary by age or race/ethnicity. However, significant regional variation was noted. In multivariable models, scores of awareness of the maternal health benefits of breastfeeding were significantly associated with intentions to breastfeed for at least 12 months (adjusted odds ratio, 1.23; 95% confidence interval, 1.11, 1.37).
Conclusions
Efforts to increase awareness of the maternal health benefits of lactation are still needed. Increasing awareness of the maternal health benefits of lactation may strengthen intentions to breastfeed as recommended.
期刊介绍:
Women"s Health Issues (WHI) is a peer-reviewed, bimonthly, multidisciplinary journal that publishes research and review manuscripts related to women"s health care and policy. As the official journal of the Jacobs Institute of Women"s Health, it is dedicated to improving the health and health care of all women throughout the lifespan and in diverse communities. The journal seeks to inform health services researchers, health care and public health professionals, social scientists, policymakers, and others concerned with women"s health.