Factors affecting breastfeeding practices. Applying a conceptual framework

Abstract

A previous paper in this issue has described the considerable potential health benefits of breastfeeding. Despite this, survey data show that the majority of NSW women stop breastfeeding in the early months after birth, and most do not breastfeed exclusively for the recommended six months (see Allen and Hector, ‘Benefits of breastfeeding’, and Hector and Webb, ‘Breastfeeding practices in NSW’ in this issue). The planning of public health interventions to promote longer and more exclusive breastfeeding practices requires an understanding of the factors that affect breastfeeding (variously referred to as predictors, determinants, barriers, influences, and contributing factors).