Exploring the Intersection of Breastfeeding and Smoking

This study addresses an important yet underexplored topic: how psychosocial factors influencing breastfeeding evolve during pregnancy and how these changes relate to smoking behaviors and exposure to tobacco smoke. The research sheds light on distinct trajectories of breastfeeding knowledge, self-efficacy, social support, and barriers among smoke-exposed pregnant women, highlighting their impact on breastfeeding intentions, initiation, and continuation.

Key Findings

• Distinct Trajectories Identified: Using data from a longitudinal randomized controlled trial among 339 women, the team identified three to four unique trajectories for each of the psychosocial determinants of breastfeeding, such as knowledge, self-efficacy, social support, and time barriers.
• Associations with Smoking and Breastfeeding Outcomes: These trajectories were significantly associated with both breastfeeding outcomes and tobacco smoke use or exposure, emphasizing the intertwined nature of these behaviors and experiences.
• Early Intervention Matters: The findings underscore the importance of addressing breastfeeding barriers and smoking cessation efforts early in pregnancy to improve health outcomes for mothers and infants.

Implications for Public Health

The study’s insights provide valuable guidance for designing targeted interventions aimed at improving breastfeeding rates and reducing tobacco exposure among under-resourced populations. By focusing on key determinants such as social support, self-efficacy, and knowledge, public health programs can better address the unique needs of low-income, smoke-exposed pregnant women.

We celebrate their contributions to advancing knowledge and promoting health equity through innovative research. To read the full article, visit Journal of Human Lactation.

Stay tuned for more updates on groundbreaking research from our center!