The Infant feeding experiences of urban Aboriginal mothers : implications for universal breastfeeding policy

Abstract

In Canada breastfeeding rates are lower among marginalized women and studies have demonstrated that successful and exclusive breastfeeding for the recommended six months frequently requires an extensive support system, one that is often absent among marginalized women. The purpose of this study was to explore the infant feeding decisions and experiences of urban Aboriginal women, the factors that influenced their decisions, and the implications of universal breastfeeding policy for Aboriginal women. Utilizing feminist qualitative methodology, I interviewed seven Aboriginal women and seven health and social service professionals providing services to Aboriginal women in Thunder Bay, Ontario.