RED BANK, N.J., Dec. 1 A national survey reveals the majority of mothers know breastfeeding is ideal for their babies and themselves but at the same time want the right to decide what works best for them and their families.
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The survey of mothers of children aged 12 months and younger found that most mothers (83%) made their infant feeding decision prior to going to the hospital to give birth. The vast majority (82%) breastfed at some point during the first year; however, over half of the moms changed their baby's diet during the first year.
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Three out of four moms believe new mothers should receive information on breastfeeding as well as infant formula so they can make an informed choice. Most mothers agree infant formula provides flexibility and choice, as well as a means of supplementing breastfeeding. Mothers also reported barriers to breastfeeding included low breast milk supply, returning to work, and sore/cracked nipples.
"We need to provide more support and education for breastfeeding moms while at the same time be supportive of those moms who cannot or choose not to breastfeed," says Cahill. "Mothers need to educate themselves and be supported whether their decision is to breastfeed or formula feed - they are both good choices."
Survey: In May 2009, Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research interviewed a nationally representative sample of 876 mothers. The sample was representative of the percent of U.S. mothers currently enrolled in WIC. This research was sponsored by the International Formula Council, an association of manufacturers and marketers of formulated nutrition products, including infant formula.
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The not-for-profit HealthyWomen (HW) organization is the leading independent health information source for women. HW develops and distributes up-to-date and objective women's health information based on the latest advances in medical research and practice, all of which is reviewed by leading medical specialists in the field. HW believes all women should have access to the most trusted and reliable health information. Information empowers women to make the best decisions to maintain and improve their health and the health of their families. For more information HW and the survey findings, visit www.healthywomen.org.
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11DC09-0721
SOURCE Medialink; HealthyWomen
