Mothers’ Breastfeeding Satisfaction: Key to Environmental Sustainability

Abstract

Breastfeeding is the natural way to feed a baby in the first months of life. It is an option with a low environmental impact, as it is a natural and renewable food that does not pollute. It is the optimal food for the infant, with nutritional and immunological advantages that reduce the prevalence of pregnancy disorders and provide benefits for the infant, the mother, and the environment. Its premature abandonment may have medium- and long-term consequences, as the use of formula milk is much more polluting. A descriptive, observational, cross-sectional study was carried out between December 2020 and January 2021, involving 96 breastfeeding women. Sociodemographic and obstetric variables were collected. A validated Spanish version of the Breastfeeding Self-efficacy Scale-Short Form (BSES-SF) was used. Factors that may lead to the early cessation of breastfeeding among the mothers that were studied are a high level of education, a lack of preparation for childbirth, a lack of security, a lack of confidence in preparation for childbirth, a lack of self-confidence, discomfort with breastfeeding in the presence of others, and a low level of maternal satisfaction. Married women and women whose partners support breastfeeding are significantly more satisfied with exclusive breastfeeding than single and divorced women. Adequate and protocolised care must be provided. Education and support for parents to allow for optimal breastfeeding and reduce the environmental impact of formula feeding is essential.