Breastfeeding Knowledge and Intent to Breastfeed

Abstract

Objectives: Identify, synthesize, and critically review research on common barriers to successful breastfeeding and ways healthcare providers can assist patients in overcoming the barriers.Methods: A search of databases and citations for evidence-based research published from 2001 to 2015 was conducted. Forty-nine articles were reviewed with 22 articles being discussed.Results: Three major themes were identified: (a) characteristics of breastfeeding education in the prenatal setting, (b) primary care interventions to promote breastfeeding, and (c) healthcare provider education on breastfeeding.Conclusions: Findings of this review collectively suggest the need to increase breastfeeding rates among women in the United States. To achieve this, there is great significance placed on healthcare providers implementing interventions to promote breastfeeding, which subsequently requires improving healthcare provider knowledge and self-confidence on breastfeeding.