Breastfeeding and Socioeconomic Status An Analysis of Breastfeeding Rates Among Low-SES Mothers

Abstract

This paper focuses on the implications of the previous data for low-income women and their infants. It provides an overview of the science behind breastfeeding—including the physical and psychological benefits for both mother and child—and explores the various causes of lower breastfeeding rates among low-income women. It concludes by explaining what moral obligation we have to increase breastfeeding rates among low-income women and the policy implications of this obligation. [From Introduction]