The Influence of Hospital Practices on Breastfeeding Among Non-Hispanic Black Women

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of hospital practices on breastfeeding initiation and breastfeeding at hospital discharge among Non-Hispanic Black (NHB) women. Data was gathered as part of the Mothers and Others: Family-Based Obesity Prevention for Infants and Toddlers study, an ongoing randomized controlled trial among 468 NHB women. The current study used preliminary data obtained from 99 women through survey questionnaires. Data revealed a breastfeeding initiation rate of 88.9%, while the rate of breastfeeding at hospital discharge was determined to be 59.1%. While no hospital practices were significantly associated with breastfeeding initiation in bivariate analysis, pacifier use and rooming in were significantly associated with breastfeeding at hospital discharge. Despite widespread recognition of the associated health benefits, breastfeeding rates in the United States remain suboptimal, with rates lowest among NHB women. Our preliminary data suggests the important influence the hospital setting may have on breastfeeding outcomes.Bachelor of Science in Public Healt