Occurrence of lactation problems versus socio-demographic conditions. Initial findings

Abstract

Introduction: Breastfeeding is the best method of feeding newborns and babies. The percentage of Polish women who feed their babies only with breast milk at the age of six months is unsatisfactory. The impact of social and demographic factors on breastfeeding-related behaviour was described, so an attempt to identify specific risk groups in relation to age, marital status, education level, or place of residence seems justified. Material and methods: A diagnostic survey covered a group of 256 women who gave birth to a baby in the last 6 months by a Caesarean section in a hospital in Warsaw, however not earlier than in the 37 th week of pregnancy. Results: Women living in towns/cities with a population of over 50,000 people more often supplementarily fed their babies with modified milk. Mothers aged 18-25 years mentioned lactation problems far less often than mothers representing other age groups. Women of that age most often denied having problems with breast milk scarcity. The problem was most common in mothers over 35 years of age. No statistically significant differences in the frequency of reporting problems related to sore nipples were observed. The ailment was most often reported by women aged 18-25 years. Conclusions: Socio-demographic conditions are related to the behaviour that affects breastfeeding. The particularly important factors include the mother's age and education. Every group experiences different problems caused by various factors. Mothers representing the group with the lowest education level should be provided with special care.