BREAST-FEEDING PRACTICES, ATTITUDES, AND BELIEFS AMONG HISPANIC WOMEN AND MEN IN A BORDER COMMUNITY

Breast-feeding practices are important on the US-Mexico border because of the lack of potable water and inadequate sewage systems. Survey data were gathered to assess the prevalence of and attitudes toward breast-feeding; focus groups were used to expand the understanding of these data. A low level of initiation and a short duration of both exclusive and partial breast-feeding were found. Potential barriers to breast-feeding included embarrassment, lack of maternal confidence, issues of convenience, and partner attitudes. Recommendations are made for a breast-feeding promotion program specific to colonia needs.