Work

Qualitative Study: Characterizing Breastfeeding Intentions of Latina Women on the United States-Mexico Border Utilizing the Theory of Planned Behavior

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Intention to breastfeed is associated with initiation and exclusivity. Few studies have characterized breastfeeding intentions among those living along the United States-Mexico border. OBJECTIVES: This study characterized breastfeeding intentions among Latina women in a rural United States-Mexico border county. METHODS: Qualitative methods characterized breastfeeding intentions using the Theory of Planned Behavior through in-depth interviews with third-trimester pregnant (n = 8) and ≤2 mo postpartum Latina women (n = 28) in a rural Arizona border county. Through interviews with healthcare (n = 5) and nutrition service providers (n = 7), we also examined provider perceptions of intentions. Thematic analysis of transcripts identified and organized themes via deductive and inductive coding using Dedoose qualitative software. RESULTS: All pregnant and postpartum participants identified as Hispanic or Latina women; most spoke Spanish at home (n = 28). Women expressed prenatal intention to breastfeed as either exclusive breastfeeding (n = 4), breastfeeding (i.e., not specifying partial or exclusive) (n = 22), partial breastfeeding (n = 8), or formula only (n = 1). Women who intended to breastfeed or exclusively breastfeed consistently expressed positive breastfeeding attitudes (e.g., breastfeeding supports improved infant nutrition and immunity or enhanced closeness and bonding). Women who intended to breastfeed generally or partially described partial breastfeeding as their family's norm. Perceived behavioral control, primarily related to returning to work, was discussed as a consideration for whether and when women intended to use formula, especially among those who intended to partially breastfeed or formula-only feed. Providers described a desire to avoid pressuring patients to breastfeed. Pregnant and postpartum women and providers agreed on the importance of family influence and work-related challenges for breastfeeding intentions. Some women had a clear plan for pumping on return to work. CONCLUSIONS: Breastfeeding intention is a strong, modifiable determinant of practice. Strengthening prenatal intention to breastfeed exclusively for 6 mo while addressing barriers to breastfeeding intention provides an opportunity for intervention during pregnancy.

Source: Journal of Nutrition

DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.10.012