Does Perceived Breastfeeding Support Explain Racial/Ethnic Differences in 6-month Breastfeeding Rates

Racial/ethnic differences in breastfeeding rates are well documented. Using data from 2 postpartum depression prevention trials (1 enrolled black and Latina mothers, the other enrolled white, and other minority mothers), we examined factors associated with 6-month breastfeeding rates. This study includes 889 (of the 1080 enrolled) mothers who completed both the baseline and 6-month surveys and answered a series of questions on depressive symptoms, breastfeeding, support, and other factors. We conducted bivariate statistics to examine the association between race/ethnicity, clinical factors, depression, and breastfeeding support with 6-month breastfeeding status. Multivariable logistic regression models assessed the independent association between race/ethnicity, other factors, and 6-month breastfeeding rates. Mean age was 30 (range 18-46); 48% were black or Latina, 31% had Medicaid insurance, and 31% were foreign born. Overall, 49% of mothers breastfed at 6 months postpartum. Breastfeeding at 6-months was more common among White/Other vs. Black/Latina mothers (64% vs. 33%, p<.0001), mothers born outside of the US vs. US born (63% vs. 43%, p<.0001), mothers who thought breastfeeding was extremely/moderately important versus mothers who did not think breastfeeding was as important (56% vs. 18%, p<.0001), and mothers with strong partner support. After controlling for demographic factors, breastfeeding support, and clinical factors, black and Latina mothers remained significantly less likely to breastfeed at 6-months as compared with white and other women (adjusted OR=0.26 95% CI: 0.16-0.40). Although mother's view of breastfeeding and breastfeeding support are important correlates of breastfeeding at 6-months, these factors do not explain racial/ethnic differences in breastfeeding rates.