Potential indicators of insufficient milk supply syndrome

Abstract

Insufficient milk supply syndrome is a complex phenomenon that has not been adequately investigated. Insufficient milk supply (IMS) is a major reason reported by mothers for early termination of breast-feeding in both developed and developing countries. Using the IMS conceptual framework by Hill and Humenick (1989), a survey was conducted to determine which set of predictors distinguished between mothers who reported an inadequate supply of breast milk (n = 100) from those who reported an adequate supply of milk (n = 284) during the first 8 weeks postpartum. Factor analysis suggested that Potential Determinant factors Maternal Confidence, Paternal Support, Maternal Health, Mother-in-Law Disapproval, and Infant Birthweight accounted for 56.7% of the variance while Potential Indicator factors Baby Behavior, Solid Foods, and Formula accounted for 70.4% of the variance. Using discriminant analysis, factors Maternal Confidence, Maternal Health, Mother-in-Law Disapproval, Baby Behavior, Solid Foods, and Formula predicted 78.04% of the cases accurately. The Potential Indicator factors alone predicted 76.58% of the cases accurately. These findings suggest that the IMS model is valid but additional variables may need to be considered.