I. FACTORS AFFECTING THE MOTHER'S CHOICE OF INFANT FEEDING METHOD

Abstract

Bloom, K., Goldbloom, R. B., & Stevens, F. E. (Departments of Psychology, Pediatrics & Obstetrics, Dalhousie University, Grace Maternity Hospital, Halifax, Nova Scotia). Breast vs. formula feeding: I. mother's choice. Acta Paed Scand, Suppl. 300:3, 1982.—539 mothers of healthy newborn infants were surveyed to determine demographic and behavioral characteristics associated with the decision to feed by breast or formula. Compared with formula‐feeding mothers, breast feeders were older and of higher socioeconomic status. The two groups did not differ significantly with respect to parity, prior abortions, prepregnancy employment, obstetrical condition or behavior at first contact with infants. Infants in the two groups showed no significant differences in gestational age, birth weight or Apgar scores. Compared with formula‐feeding mothers, breast feeders showed significantly greater tendencies to use advice or literature in choosing breast feeding; they make their feeding choice before pregnancy, and do not consider an alternative feeding method. They more frequently attend pre‐natal classes, have a higher degree of coincidence between their choice (to breast feed) and preferences of their husbands and physicians. These differences were independent of age and of socioeconomic status. Breast feeders’mothers and female relatives were more likely to have breast fed their own infants, but these characteristics were not independent of socioeconomic status and age. These data help in understanding social and cultural aspects of the choice of method for infant feeding, and may be useful in designing programs to increase the prevalence of breast‐feeding.