Moving Beyond Breastfeeding Initiation: A Qualitative Study Unpacking Factors That Influence Infant Feeding at Hospital Discharge Among Urban, Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Women

Abstract

BackgroundFactors that influence breastfeeding initiation and duration have been well established; however, there is limited understanding of in-hospital exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), which is critical for establishing breastfeeding. Grady Memorial Hospital, which serves a high proportion of participants receiving Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and racial/ethnic minorities, had an in-hospital EBF rate in 2018 by the Joint Commission’s definition of 29% and sought contextualized evidence on how to best support breastfeeding mothers. ObjectiveThe objectives were to (1) identify facilitators and barriers to in-hospital EBF and (2) explore breastfeeding support available from key stakeholders across the social-ecological model. DesignIn-depth, semistructured interviews were conducted and analyzed using thematic analysis. ParticipantsThe sample included a total of 38 purposively sampled participants from Grady Memorial Hospital (10 EBF mothers, 10 non-EBF, and 18 key stakeholders such as clinicians, community organizations’ staff, and administrators). ResultsKey themes included that maternal perception of inadequate milk supply was a barrier to in-hospital EBF at the intrapersonal level. At the interpersonal level, a personable and individualized approach to breastfeeding counseling may be most effective in supporting EBF. At the institutional level, key determinants of EBF were gaps in prenatal breastfeeding education, limited time to provide comprehensive prenatal education to high-risk patients, and practical help with latching and positioning. Community-level WIC services were perceived as a facilitator due to the additional benefits provided for EBF mothers; however, the distribution of WIC vouchers for formula to mothers while they are in the hospital undermines the promotion of EBF. Cultural norms and a diverse patient population were reported as barriers to providing support at the macrosystem level. ConclusionMultipronged approaches that span the social-ecological model may be required to support early EBF in hospital settings.