Choices and Attitudes of Mothers Regarding Infant Feeding and Related Factors in Karbala City

Abstract

Background: Breastfeeding improves the health, development, and survival of all children. As well as, saving life and improving the health of mothers. Further, it reduces economic burden on families and the community.

Objectives: To identify factors affecting mothers’ choices and attitudes regarding breastfeeding, and to assess mothers' knowledge and source of their information on infant feeding.

Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted in Kerbala. A random sample of mothers of infants aged 1 to 12 months was selected and interviewed. Mothers attended two primary health care centers and outpatient clinics of Kerbala Teaching Hospital for Children in Kerbala city for caring of their infants were considered eligible for the study. Interviews were carried out during period January 2 – July 30, 2015.

Results: Total of 317 mothers was enrolled in the study, (59%) of their babies were males. Mothers age range from (15-42) years with a mean age of 25 ± 5.98 years. Breastfeeding was the predominant feeding type (62%). Selecting breastfeeding was significantly associated with younger maternal age, being vaginally delivered, being multipara and encouraging husband role. The initiation of breastfeeding was in the first hour in 73% of the mothers. And breastfeeding initiation within the first hour was negatively associated with being delivered by Caesarean section. While the main source of mother information regarding feeding was the family.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding was the predominant type of feeding. Choosing and continuation of breastfeeding was positively associated with younger maternal age, normal vaginal delivery, multiparty and husband support.