University Study Finds Almost Universal Breastfeeding Problems for First-Time Mothers

A study conducted by researchers at the University of California at Davis and the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center finds that breastfeeding problems are very common among first-time mothers. These problems can lead to mothers switching to formula early in their babies lives, which can result in health problems for their children.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding only for the first six months of a baby’s life. About three quarters of new mothers initially breastfeed their babies but only 13 percent continue to use breastfeeding exclusively for six months.

The study involved 532 first-time mothers who were interviewed while they were pregnant and at six other times within two months of their giving birth. Some 92 percent of the mothers experienced some breastfeeding problem immediately after giving birth.

The authors of the study, which was published in the journal Pediatrics, state, “Strategies should be developed for evaluating infant breastfeeding and alleviating the concerns of the new, breastfeeding mothers soon after birth. If we can enable mothers to achieve their breastfeeding goals, we will have a healthier nation.”