A systematic review examining the association between female body image and the intention, initiation and duration of postpartum infant feeding methods (Breastfeeding vs. Bottle feeding)

A systematic review was conducted to examine female body image in relation to the intention, initiation and duration of postpartum infant feeding methods. A search of 10 databases was conducted to identify studies. A total of nine studies were included in the systematic review. All studies were of a non-randomised control design with a total of 13,046 participants. Findings suggest exclusive breastfeeding is more likely in pregnant women with a higher body image, while those with body concerns had less intention to breastfeed or initiate, with those that start having a shorter duration.