Additional reasons for deciding not to breastfeed can include concern about the quality and quantity
of breast milk, and partner and family support, which are common across developed and developing countries.10, 11 Women who decide not to breastfeed are also more likely to have smoked during their pregnancy, be primiparous mothers (i.e., having their first child), and to have a child born low birth weight or with complex health issues such as cystic fibrosis.9, 12 Prenatal and post-natal
stressful experiences may also reduce the
duration of breastfeeding.13 Finally, several studies suggest that mother's who return to work within the first 6 months postpartum or anticipate an early return to full -
time employment, are less likely to breastfeed.
The extent to which
stressful events have lasting adverse effects is determined in part by the individual's biological response (mediated by both genetic predispositions and the availability
of supportive relationships that help moderate the stress response), and in part by the
duration, intensity,
timing, and context
of the
stressful experience.