"Just Take It Off the Plate": a Syndemic Model of Low Breastfeeding Rates and Maternal Stress in South Alabama
The purpose of this study was to explore the ways in which multiple disasters (e.g., the compounded effects of pandemics, hurricanes, tornadoes) have shaped perceptions of infant health and well-being, particularly as they relate to infant feeding practices, in South Alabama's gulf coast. Using a critical medical anthropology lens, we conducted semi-structured interviews with professionals/providers (n=10) and birth-givers/families (n=10) about how providing services in a multiple disaster context has shaped their perceptions of infant feeding, health, and well-being. Results reveal a clustering of two biocultural conditions that have the potential to negatively impact infant health outcomes in South Alabama: low rates of breastfeeding and maternal stress. In the discussion, we introduce a syndemic model of low breastfeeding rates and maternal stress to illustrate how infant feeding decisions are made at the intersection of harmful, institutional policies and health inequities.
Breastfeeding, Maternal Stress, Medical Anthropology, Perinatal Health, South Alabama, Syndemic
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