Infant Weaning Practices among Hmong Women in Melbourne
Author(s):
Rice, Pranee Liamputtong
Format:
Journal article
Citation:
Australian Journal Of Primary Health - Interchange, Volume 5, Issue 2 (1999). pp. 27-37.
Language:
English
Abstract:
Examines infant weaning practices & describes the role of cultural beliefs & practices on infant feeding patterns among Hmong immigrants in Melbourne, Australia, based on in-depth interviews & participant observation conducted with 27 Hmong mothers & some traditional healers during 1993 & 1998. Traditionally, Hmong women breast-feed their newborn infants. Exclusive breast-feeding continues until the infant is at least 5 months old when supplementary food is commenced. Hmong women practice prolonged breast-feeding, usually until a subsequent birth. However, solid foods are gradually given to the child & common household foods are offered when the child is ready for them. Weaning, therefore, does not usually present an abrupt interruption in the infant's habits &, hence, does not cause much upset. Cultural beliefs & practices relating to infant feeding & weaning among the Hmong constitute a favorable trend, as currently recommended by the World Health Organization. 42 References. Adapted from the source document.