Infant feeding pattern in the first six months of age in USA: a follow-up study

• DOI: 10.1186/s13006-017-0139-4
• Publication Date: 2017-12-02T07:49:56Z
• Authors: Wilfried Karmaus; Nelís Soto-Ramírez; Hongmei Zhang
• Keywords: Infant feeding; Early feeding

Infant feeding may consist of direct breastfeeding (DBF), pumping and bottle (P&F), formula (FF), solid food (SFF), any combination. An accurate evaluation infant requires descriptions different patterns, consistency, transition over time.In United States America, the Feeding Practice Study II collected information on mode nine occasions in 12 months. We focused first 6 months with six occasions. To determine longitudinal patterns latent class analyses was applied assessed probabilities between these classes time.Over months, 1899 mothers provided information. In month 1 largest is FF (32.9%) followed by DBF (23.8%). 2, a substantial proportion included SFF; which increases time. A not allocated class, due to missing identified 1-3, transitions SFF starting 4 (8.9%). 1, two mixed exist: P&F combined (13.9%) (18.7%). The triple combination DBF, P&F, became 2 (transition probability: 24.8%), 49.1%). pattern relatively stable until 4, when at least 50% infants receive food. Only 23-26% (DBF) 1-4, 5-6 added. Mothers who used were less educated employed fulltime. smoke residing west also more likely practice feeding.Infant complex. Breastfeeding predominant we additionally considered feeding. facilitate breastfeeding, increase duration maternal leave necessary States.