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Breastfeeding can be a challenge for many new moms, but a new study from the University of Missouri sheds light on the unique barriers faced by mothers in rural communities. The research reveals that rural moms often lack access to essential support systems and information, leading them to stop breastfeeding within the first few days or weeks—at a higher rate than their urban and suburban counterparts.
Like all new mothers, women in rural areas want to ensure their babies receive adequate nourishment. However, without proper guidance on breastfeeding best practices, many struggle to gauge whether their babies are getting enough milk.
“Growing up in rural Missouri and working in maternal child health myself, I wanted to understand how rural moms in Missouri made their decisions about breastfeeding and how their rural environment impacted those decisions,” said Karry Weston, the study’s lead author and a postdoctoral fellow at Mizzou’s Sinclair School of Nursing.
“I found that many of the rural moms I spoke with were highly motivated to breastfeed at first and were aware of the many health benefits breastfeeding provides for both them and their babies—they just ended up not sticking with it after a few days or weeks.”
Barriers to Breastfeeding in Rural Communities
During her research, Weston identified several factors contributing to rural mothers discontinuing breastfeeding shortly after birth. These included a lack of practical knowledge about what to expect, feelings of being overwhelmed, limited access to lactation consultants, and a lack of community support.
For her study, Weston interviewed first-time mothers throughout rural Missouri to understand their experiences with infant feeding. Many expressed uncertainty about their milk supply or whether their babies were receiving enough nutrition. The findings, published in the Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing, highlight the critical need for more support and resources for rural moms.
Some mothers had questions about pumping and latching techniques, while others found formula feeding more convenient due to work or school commitments. Additionally, some lived hours away from the nearest lactation consultant, while others came from communities where formula feeding was the norm.
Solutions to Support Rural Moms
Weston hopes that her research will lead to improvements in breastfeeding education, resources, and community support for new mothers. Potential solutions include telehealth services and home visiting nurse programs staffed with lactation-certified professionals.
Weston’s passion for this research was sparked by her experience at Hannibal Regional Hospital, the first hospital in Missouri to earn a “baby-friendly” designation for promoting breastfeeding. As a labor and delivery nurse and childbirth educator, she recognized the need for better postpartum support.
“For example, we give new moms pumps, but we could also provide them with more information about how to use them or what to expect when pumping,” Weston said. “Some moms may think they are not producing enough milk when in reality, they are. We can help moms feel more confident.”
She also emphasized the importance of practical advice on balancing breastfeeding with daily life and the role of local support networks.
“For new moms, seeing someone in their family or community successfully breastfeeding can be very inspiring and lead to a domino effect,” Weston said. “When rural moms who choose to breastfeed have the support of family, friends, neighbors, or co-workers who also chose to breastfeed, it can be incredibly encouraging.”
Mizzou’s commitment to rural communities, including MU Extension programs, drives Weston’s ongoing research. She hopes her work will help new mothers in rural areas access more resources and feel empowered in their infant feeding decisions.
“Hearing new moms say they discovered a resource or program that improved their experience is what motivates me to keep going,” Weston said. “I want rural moms to feel supported, no matter what choices they make.”
Disclaimer
This article is based on research conducted by the University of Missouri and published in the Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing. The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. New mothers are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals for personalized guidance on infant feeding and breastfeeding support.
