Maternal Opinions on Breastfeeding, Introducing Solids, and Postpartum Weight Loss

Abstract

\n Objectives: Early cessation of breastfeeding, inappropriate introduction of solids, and postpartum weight retention are associated with negative health outcomes for mother and infant. The purpose of this study was to understand timing of and factors that influence infant feeding decisions and barriers that women face when breastfeeding, introducing solids, and losing weight postpartum to inform future interventions.Methods: Eleven women who had recently delivered (infant age 3-10 months) were recruited from a Kansas City Metro pediatric office. All women were currently breastfeeding or had previous breastfeeding experience. Women completed a feeding survey and participated in a group interview to obtain information regarding breastfeeding, introducing solids, and postpartum weight loss. A content and text analysis were performed to summarize the data.Results: Predominant emerging themes were: (1) Inadequate knowledge for caring for self and infant (2) Desired knowledge from a Healthcare Provider (3) Feeding decisions were made before pregnancy and preparation took place in the second/third trimesters (4) Unmet breastfeeding goals (5) Clear guidelines on introducing solids are lacking (6) ) Those that achieve pre-pregnancy weight have a different body shape and weight distribution (7) and Lack of time and energy make postpartum weight loss hard. Conclusions: Overall, women do not feel they have adequate information to successfully breastfeed, introduce solids, or lose weight postpartum. They would like basic and practical information on both caring for and feeding themselves and their infant. They would like this information provided to them both during pregnancy and during well child visits.