A self-selected sample of 59 New Zealand Maori mothers, and their infants born in Gisborne between July 1996 and August 1997 were included in the study. Each mother was interviewed when her infant was between three and eight weeks of age. Information was collected on the mother's infant feeding practices since birth, and her knowledge and attitudes regarding infant feeding. Regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with successful breastfeeding initiation. Eight-seven percent of the mothers initiated breastfeeding; 68% were exclusively breastfeeding at three weeks. Intending to breastfeed increased the likelihood of successfully initiating breastfeeding. Older mothers were less like to initiate breastfeeding. The most commonly reported reason for stopping exclusive breastfeeding was 'not enough milk' (43%). Eighty three percent of mothers reported they had not been encouraged to breastfeed. Breastfeeding in public was considered embarrassing by 83% of mothers. Although the rate of breastfeeding initiation was high, many mothers had stopped exclusively breastfeeding by three weeks of age indicating a need for more support for breastfeeding mothers. During prenatal care visits, mothers should be specifically encouraged to breastfeed, and education appropriate to Maori mothers should include that more frequent breast-feeding is an effective technique for increasing breastmilk supply. Society also needs to address the social issue of embarrassment many mothers of Maori descent feel when breastfeeding in public. This project was funded (in part) by the Lotteries Health Board of New Zealand.
Learning Objectives: As a result of this session, participants will be able to: 1)Understand some of the attitudes and practices associated with infant feeding among the New Zealand Maori; 2)Target future infant feeding interventions among this population to their specific needs.
Keywords: Infant Health, Breastfeeding
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.