ERIC Number: EJ1402365
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023
Pages: 7
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0744-8481
EISSN: EISSN-1940-3208
Available Date: N/A
Barriers and Facilitators to Expressing Milk on Campus as a Breastfeeding Student
Ryan, Rachel Ann; Whipps, Mackenzie D. M.; Bihuniak, Jessica Dauz
Journal of American College Health, v71 n7 p2031-2037 2023
Objective: Despite the growing student parent population, many postsecondary institutions in the United States (U.S.) lack sufficient lactation policies for students. The objective of this study was to explore breastfeeding students' perceived awareness and use of on-campus lactation rooms and identify barriers and facilitators to expressing milk on campus. Participants:A convenience sample of breastfeeding students enrolled in colleges/universities in the U.S. Methods: Information about students' experiences expressing milk on campus was collected via an online survey. Thematic analysis was used to qualitatively analyze self-reported barriers/facilitators to expressing.Results: Ninety-three participants representing 68 unique institutions completed the survey. Barriers to expressing on campus included inadequate lactation spaces, lack of storage for breast pump equipment/expressed milk, and lack of time to express. Conversely, access to adequate lactation spaces, having appropriate breast pump equipment, and on-campus social support, were important facilitators.Conclusion: Comprehensive lactation policies may improve on-campus breastfeeding experiences among students.
Descriptors: Infants, Nutrition, Mothers, College Students, School Policy, Knowledge Level, Educational Facilities, Barriers, Affordances, Student Experience
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A