(P27-027-25) Breastfeeding Intentions, Practices and Support Among Foreign-Born Non-Hispanic Mothers in Clarkston, Georgia

Objectives: The health benefits of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for mothers and children are well-established, but major disparities by race, socioeconomic status and region exist. Georgia has one of the lowest EBF rates in the U.S. (18.7% at 6 months), and breastfeeding is especially understudied among the growing population of foreign-born non-Hispanic (FBNH) mothers, including immigrants and refugees. This pilot study explores the breastfeeding intentions, practices and access to support among FBNH mothers in Clarkston, Georgia.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was administered to FBNH mothers who immigrated to the US within the last two decades as an adult, live in Atlanta, had a singleton baby in Georgia and breastfed within the last two years. Participants were recruited and surveyed in collaboration with staff from Embrace Refugee Birth Support, a Clarkston-based immigrant and refugee birth support program of Friends of Refugees.

Results: Participants (n=32) were 30 years old on average (S.D= 3.6), mostly unemployed (56.2%), multiparous (93%), and low-income WIC recipients (91%). Almost all mothers (96.9%) intended to breastfeed prenatally- 37.5% planned to practice EBF for the recommended 6 months, while 87.5% intended to breastfeed for at least one year. All participants initiated breastfeeding, but only 6.3% of participants reported EBF for up to 6 months compared to the 37.5% who intended to do so. Participants who had stopped breastfeeding at the time of the survey reported an average breastfeeding duration of 15 months (SD=9.7). 53.1% of participants reported no prenatal breastfeeding counseling and 87.5% reported a lack of breastfeeding support within the first hour of birth.

Conclusions: These findings indicate a high intention to breastfeed, long duration of breastfeeding, but low rates of EBF and important gaps in breastfeeding education and support. Further research and targeted interventions may be needed to promote EBF and provide equitable access to prenatal, peripartum and postpartum breastfeeding education and support for FBNH mothers.

Funding Sources: Emory Laney Graduate School Professional Development Support Grant