What Barriers and Characteristics Affect the Continuation of Breastfeeding in Black Women Compared to Non- Hispanic White Women in Connecticut?

Background: Nationally, exclusive breastfeeding rates decline in the post-partum period, particularly for non-Hispanic black mothers. Barriers exist that explain the poor rates of breastfeeding and specific maternal characteristics place women at higher risk. Breastfeeding is beneficial for an infant and mother’s health. Promotion of breastfeeding can aid in dismantling the health disparity observed and will help overcome the poor health outcomes seen in black women and infants. Methods: Retrospective data from the national Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) program were utilized to analyse barriers and characteristics that may hinder breastfeeding rates. Results: Univariate logistic regression model revealed that demographic, economic, social and physical characteristic variables had a significant influence on breastfeeding duration. Subsequent multivariate analysis revealed that maternal age, BMI, pre-pregnancy healthcare Medicaid insurance coverage were significant variables affecting breastfeeding duration. Conclusions: Certain characteristics place a mother at higher risk of discontinuing breastfeeding. Particular focus on targeted counselling to help dismantle these disparities should be the main intervention to increase breastfeeding rates.