African American Mothers' Decision to Discontinue Breastfeeding and Switch to Formula

After initiating breastfeeding, some African American mothers find adjusting to the demands challenging and discontinue breastfeeding. To learn about decisions switching to formula, we conducted a secondary analysis of qualitative interviews with African American mothers >= 18 years old. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis guided by the social cognitive theory. We identified four key themes that reflect personal, behavioral, and environmental factors: (1) simplicity of formula, (2) diverse support networks, (3) early breastfeeding is most important, and (4) lack of access to breastfeeding support resources. To increase breastfeeding duration among African American mothers, it is essential for interventions to be comprehensive including various strategies such as education regarding the physical aspects of breastfeeding, exposure to African American breastfeeding mothers, and active involvement of support persons. More research among African American mothers is needed to identify effective opportunities for change in cultural, social, and structural systems that impede successful breastfeeding.

Automated summary

After initiating breastfeeding, some African American mothers find it challenging to adjust to the demands and may discontinue breastfeeding. Factors influencing their decision to switch to formula include the simplicity of formula, diverse support networks, the importance of early breastfeeding, and lack of access to breastfeeding support resources. Interventions for increasing breastfeeding duration among African American mothers should be comprehensive, addressing physical aspects of breastfeeding, exposure to African American breastfeeding mothers, and active involvement of support persons. More research is needed to identify effective opportunities for change in cultural, social, and structural systems that hinder successful breastfeeding among African American mothers.