Ask Northern California moms about breastfeeding, and most will be aware of the health benefits of this choice. Even among moms who believe "breast is best," however, a significant number still stop breastfeeding early or never start.

Although PAMF is already a leader in breastfeeding rates, we want to know when and why our patients stop breastfeeding so that we can improve our breastfeeding education and support services to meet the needs of as many new mothers as possible. That is why our Education Division is conducting a study of breastfeeding mothers called the Bay Area Breastfeeding Experience Survey (BABES).

"There are so many factors, both big and small, that keep women from realizing their goal of breastfeeding their babies," BABES Project Director Nancy Brown, Ph.D., says. "We want to make sure that PAMF is offering the best support possible, and to do this, we can't just be complacent about having very high breastfeeding rates. We need to study when breastfeeding stops and why."

Because PAMF serves a diverse patient population in four Northern California counties, the data we gather may lead to a better understanding of how to support all new moms.

Want to Help?

BABES is currently enrolling PAMF patients who are in their last trimester of pregnancy, including those carrying twins and those who have already had children.

Women who enroll in the study commit to completing a series of short surveys for the length of time they breastfeed. The initial survey is done during your last trimester of pregnancy. When the baby is born, you will receive a phone call to collect basic information about the birth. Then, PAMF will send you surveys by e-mail when your baby is 1, 3, 6 and 12 months old, or until you stop breastfeeding.

"By sharing your breastfeeding experiences, you will be contributing to the success of future mothers and babies," Dr. Brown says.

Expecting mothers who want to learn more about the BABES study should call the BABES Hotline at 650-565-4474.
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