Breastfeeding decisions for Alaska's teen moms: Observations from the professionals' point of view

Alaska is a state with many healthcare challenges. One challenge facing MCH professionals in the state is the increasing number of teen mothers. Historically, adolescent mothers are less likely to initiate and continue breastfeeding. During the annual meeting of The Alaska Breastfeeding Coalition, an informal survey was conducted among participants to better understand how lactation consultants and other professionals support adolescent mothers in Alaska. Ninety-one completed surveys were returned. Almost 40% of participants identified themselves as lactation consultants, with the remaining participants split between health care providers, WIC staff, and breastfeeding advocates. Eighty-two percent of respondents agree or strongly agree that adolescent mothers are less confident in their breastfeeding abilities than older mothers. Eight-one percents felt that adolescent mothers face more obstacles when it comes to feeding their infants as compared to older mothers. An overwhelming number of participants, 90%, agree or strongly agree that the mother of the teen (the maternal grandmother of the infant) has influence over infant feeding decisions. When asked, in their experience, if the maternal grandmother accompanies the teen to appointments or classes, 88% of respondents said sometimes. Six percent responded always and 6% responded never. This survey is a concrete first step toward the goal of increasing breastfeeding rates among adolescent mothers in Alaska. Lactation consultants and other professionals who support and educate breastfeeding mothers have identified the maternal grandmother as a key influence in feeding decisions and have indicated that the grandmother is present in situations where education and support can be provided to them.