Date of Award

5-2011

Document Type

Independent Study

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Abstract

Human breast milk is the healthiest form of milk for human babies, which makes breastfeeding beneficial in so many ways. Breastfeeding promotes health for both the mother and infant, helps prevent disease, and reduces health care and feeding costs. With the superior qualities of breast milk becoming better-established in medical literature, breastfeeding rates have increased; however, many adolescents remain unaware of the role of breastfeeding in health promotion and disease prevention. This independent study identifies the barriers to breastfeeding in which adolescents face as well as strategies to facilitate breastfeeding among this population. The methodology includes a comprehensive review of literature on the barriers that exist with adolescent mothers and their infant feeding choice and ways to promote breastfeeding in order to meet the objectives outlined in this proposal. The outcome of this independent study is the development of an educational presentation to inform healthcare providers on strategies addressing breastfeeding promotion specifically tailored to meet the needs of the adolescent

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