Breastfeeding Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Breastfeeding, including details on breast feeding benefits, problems, alcohol, diet.

Explanation for cessation of breastfeeding in mothers of twins.

Damato EG, Dowling DA, Standing TS, Schuster SD

Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106-4904, USA.

This study used content analysis to examine reasons for cessation of breastfeeding of twins by 2 time points: 9.4 weeks and 28.3 weeks of age. From a convenience sample of 123 mothers, 110 initiated breastfeeding for their twins. Thirty women had stopped breastfeeding by time 1, with an additional 37 women stopping by time 2. Three major themes were identified regarding weaning: factors related to breastfeeding process, to mother's role and health, and to infant behavior and health. Subcategories were identified for each theme, with additional subcategories emerging at time 2. Cited reasons are similar to those given by singleton mothers; however, mothers of twins identified unique issues related to infants' behaviors, challenges presented by growth and development, and time commitments that interfered with breastfeeding continuation. Implications of the study suggest the need for continued lactation support as the twins grow and develop and new breastfeeding issues arise.

Published 22 August 2005 in J Hum Lact, 21(3): 296-304.
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