Overcoming barriers through new technology: support via text messaging

Despite the significant health benefits attributed to breastfeeding, rates in countries such as Australia continue to remain static or to decline. Latest data from the Longitudinal Survey of Australian Children indicate that only 56% of infants at three months are fully breastfed, decreasing to 14% at six months (Australian Institute of Family Studies, 2008). Similar figures are reported in the United States, with exclusive breastfeeding rates at six months put at 14.8% (Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2011). There are significant reductions in breastfeeding rates at one month of age, and again at four months (Australian Institute of Family Studies, 2008). [extract