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Introduction:
Adolescent Pregnancy


Page 2
Breastfeeding Promotion:
Nursing Implications



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Adolescent:
Health and
Wellbeing


Main Page








Brought to
you by
Anita Peters
March
2003

Teens and Breastfeeding

It has been said that breastmilk is the perfect food for an infant. Not only are all the nutrients that a newborn baby require present in breastmilk, they are in a form that is readily available for the infant, allowing for simplified digestion of milk and healthy promotion of growth (Riordan, J., Auerbach, K., 1993). The American Academy of Pediatrics recommend breastmilk as the preferred feeding for all infants; whether they be healthy, premature, or sick (American Academy of Pediatrics, 1997). These recommendations are based upon the unique composition of human breast milk. In a 1990 study it was found that only �39% of teen moms having their first baby breastfed in comparison to 86% of mothers over the age of 30� (Carter, L. 2002, p. 1). These are compelling reasons for addressing this issue.

Teenage pregnancy is a complex issue, as are its contributing factors. Teens who become pregnant often share similar backgrounds in areas such as educational, racial, or ethnic profiles (Bissell, M., 2000). The socio-economic health determinants of many of these teens are low income, lack of education, and little or no prenatal or parenting instruction. According to the SIECUS Report (1998) there is a direct correlation between poverty and education level of parents, and teenage pregnancy rates in a given community. It is noted �young people who live in extreme poverty with parents who have low levels of education have higher rates of pregnancy than youth who live in better socio-economic conditions� (SIECUS Report, 1998, p.2). Bearing this in mind, these teens may tend to share the same common socio-economic fate of their parents.

Breastfeeding Myths and Benefits for Teens:

  • focusing on immediate benefits to teen mothers and "to the point" facts will help eliminate breastfeeding myths

Breastfeeding Hurts:

  • Although it may feel strange or uncomfortable at first, with the correct latch and positioning, breastfeeding is not only pain free but can feel kind of nice

Breastfeeding will ruin my breast shape and size:

  • Pregnancy may change your breast shape but breastfeeding won't

You need big breasts to breastfeed:

  • No matter what their size, your breasts will provide your baby with all the milk needed for proper growth and health

Breastfeeding will tie you down:

  • You can feed your baby where ever you are. You will miss less social events or school due to a sick baby

Lose weight faster:

  • Breastfeeding helps mom lose weight faster without restricting calories

Get back into shape faster:

  • Breastfeeding helps the uterus get back into shape faster

Easier:

  • Breastfeeding saves time and can make mom's life easier. No preparing and cleaning bottles. Mom can sleep or talk on the phone while baby eats. Breastfeeding also makes going out with baby easier to handle

Free:

  • Breastfeeding is free and saves mom money. Formula is expensive approximately $250-$400 a month

Healthier:

  • Breastfed babies are healthier and more intelligent

    Understanding the �human experience as it is lived� in both socio-economical and environmental areas is imperative for successful breastfeeding for this marginalized group (Kwantlen University College, 2001, p.31).



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