title: Breastfeeding counseling by health care providers.
abstract: This study sought to identify the content and source of information given to prospective breastfeeding mothers. The population included 111 mothers attempting to breastfeed at a community hospital during a 3-month period. Questionnaires were used to assess prenatal preparation and specific breastfeeding issues discussed by health care providers. During the prenatal period, 23% of mothers received counsel from their obstetrician, 47% from books, and 21% from classes. Postpartum, nurses provided breastfeeding information to 87% of mothers whereas obstetricians and pediatricians provided advice to 27% and 33% of mothers, respectively. Many women do not receive supportive breastfeeding counseling from physicians. Health care providers must develop better methods of prenatal and postpartum education to enhance breastfeeding initiation and continuation.
authors.affiliation: Rainbow Babies and Childrens Hospital, Cleveland, USA.
authors.forename: S D
authors.initials: SD
authors.lastname: Izatt
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001942:Breast Feeding; D003376:Counseling / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion; D006764:Hospitals, Community; D006801:Humans; D009035:Mothers / Q000193:education*; D010564:Personnel, Hospital; D011181:Postnatal Care; D011295:Prenatal Care; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires