A Description of the Relationship between Breastfeeding Experiences, Breastfeeding Satisfaction, and Weaning in the First 3 Months after Birth

Abstract

This longitudinal study describes the relationships among breastfeeding experiences, maternal breastfeeding satisfaction (measured by the Maternal Breastfeeding Evaluation Scale [MBFES]), and weaning in the first 3 months postpartum. Postal surveys were used to collect data antenatally and at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months postpartum from 365 women recruited from 3 public hospitals in Australia. Breastfeeding problems were associated with a reduction in MBFES subscale scores ( P < .05) but not with weaning. Infant breastfeeding satisfaction subscale score was negatively associated with perceived inadequate milk supply ( P < .05) and positively associated with engorgement ( P < .05). Significant predictors of weaning at all points were total MBFES score in the lowest tertile (adjusted odds ratios [ORs]: 2 weeks, 21.9; > 2-6 weeks, 14.6; > 6 weeks to 3 months, 6.4) and leaking milk (adjusted ORs: ≤ 2 weeks, 0.23;>2-6 weeks, 0.19;>6 weeks to 3 months, 0.15). Perceived inadequate milk was a significant predictor only for weaning > 2 to 6 weeks (adjusted OR=4.2). J Hum Lact. 19(2):145-156.