ISSN 2167-0404
International Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences ISSN: 2167-0447 Vol. 2 (9), pp. 175-180, September, 2012. © International Scholars Journals
Review
Barriers to breastfeeding in male dominated society
Christina M. Miller-Bellor
Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States. E-mail: [email protected].
Received 09 July, 2012; Accepted 17 September, 2012
Abstract
The U.S Department of Health and Human Services, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the World Health Organization and many others recommend breastfeeding for at least a year. Despite this recommendation, the Center for Disease Control (2011a) estimates that only 23.8% of infants are still breastfed until age 1 in the United States. The benefits of breastfeeding are well documented, yet, a December 7, 2011 headline reads, “Breast Milk or Formula: Why All the Drama?” Breastfeeding is a controversial issue, especially public breastfeeding. There have been several news stories over the last ten years about women asked to leave public places when breastfeeding. This review will address the attitudes and beliefs that create barriers to breastfeeding.
Key words: Breastfeeding, infant and maternal health, feminism.