Typical Concerns:

Modesty: When breastfeeding: more likely to want privacy.

Mobility: How to incorporate breastfeeding into an active lifestyle

Insecurity: Reassurance needed about choices teen mother is making.

Poor Self Esteem: Praise the mother for her choice to breastfeed

Smoking: It�s better to quite but if not limit the amount of smoking, smoke right after breastfeeding and smoke outside.

Birth Control: Oral contraceptives do limit the milk supply, therefore review other methods of safe sex. Although Depo Prevera has shown to be an effective contraceptive without diminishing milk supply but it is recommended not to use it for the first six months of breastfeeding.

Alcohol and Drugs: Illegal drugs are contraindicated in breastfeeding.  Regular consumption of alcohol is not recommended as it can lead to delayed motor development. Breastfeeding should be postponed at least one hour after each drink. (Health Canada 1998)

Diet: Believe what they eat influences milk supply however it is how well and how frequently the baby is draining the breast that affects the milk  supply.

Sexual Abuse Survivors: May not be able to allow baby to latch b/c of breast involvement in sexual abuse history, and some are bothered by the sensual feel of  breastfeeding.

Their Body Shape: Misconception that the breast sag.  Its pregnancy that causes change to the breasts.  Breastfeeding has no negative effect on the shape of the breasts.

Reasons Why Teen Mothers Do Not Breastfeed:

They are more worried about their own body, their behavior and physical appearance.

Afraid breastfeeding will change the shape and size of their breast

Think they don�t have enough milk.  �Biologically speaking, adolescents can lactate�.no differences in quality or quantity have been associated with maternal age� (Dr. Ruth Lawerence)

Most teens have little knowledge about breastfeeding, and those who think they know something about it often mention misconceptions and old wives tales.

Teens are sensitive about their breasts because of the breast fetish in the media.

The fear of being ridiculed if seen breastfeeding in public.

Influenced by family, peers and their partners.

They won�t be able to work, go to school or go out with friends.

How to cope with having to stay home?

Will baby bite while breastfeeding.

Can they smoke?

Can they take birth control.

How to earn money?