Breastfeeding in Saudi Arabia: a review

Abstract

BackgroundBreastfeeding is viewed as the optimal method of infant feeding that provides many benefits to both the infant and the mother. The monitoring and reporting of breastfeeding indicators are essential for any country to plan and implement effective promotion programs for sustainable breastfeeding. The aim of this review is to examine the available studies and data on breastfeeding in Saudi Arabia, and determine the potential factors that affect breastfeeding practices and duration in this country.MethodsThe databases of Web of Knowledge, Science Direct and PubMed were searched using the relevant key words. Only studies that reported breastfeeding practices, rates and indicators in Saudi Arabia were included. Standard WHO definitions for breastfeeding categories were used in this review.ResultsSeventeen cross-sectional studies were identified and reviewed and five stated they used standard definitions. The self-administered questionnaire as a measurement tool was the predominant method of data collection. Infants' ages range from less than six months up to five years. Initiation rates were high (mostly above 90%), but a few studies reported low rates of timely initiation (within the first hour). The exclusive breastfeeding rate could not be accurately determined as rates range from 0.8% to 43.9% among studies due to the lack of clear definitions and the nature of study design. The partial (mixed) feeding method was common and the category of 'any breastfeeding' has generally high rates. The mean duration of breastfeeding has showed a progressive decline over time from 13.4 months in 1987 to 8.5 months in 2010. Factors associated with a high prevalence of breastfeeding and longer duration include increased maternal age, low educational levels, rural residence, low income, multiparity and avoiding contraceptives. The most common reason for breastfeeding cessation was insufficient breast milk. Other reasons include sickness, new pregnancy and breastfeeding problems.ConclusionsBreastfeeding indicators in Saudi Arabia could not be monitored or compared relying on the available data because no longitudinal studies have been conducted in this country. A cohort study design would be the most appropriate procedure to rigorously assess and report valid results on breastfeeding practices and patterns in the Saudi society.

Breastfeeding Status and Effective Factors in 21 - 27 Months Iranian Infants

“…Although this prevalence rate was lesser than Saudi Arabia and China, Compared to WHO report (1.7% -24.4%) it was appropriate. In Saudi Arabia and China exclusive breastfeeding rate were reported 32% -38% and 70% which seems differences in cultures, believes, training and breastfeeding social supports are responsible for such discrepancies [15] [16]. Maybe in our country exclusive breastfeeding was being replaced by a combination of breast milk and formula.…”

Breastfeeding Trends and Determinants: Implications and recommendations for Gulf Cooperation Council countries

“…24 Another study among Saudi Arabian employed mothers who had undergone Caesarean deliveries and did not receive breastfeeding education noted that the main factors which doubled the risk of failing to breastfeed were work-related problems, insufficient breast milk and maternal and neonatal health problems. 16 In Oman, suboptimal breastfeeding practices have reportedly been linked to a lack of continuity of support, inadequate healthcare staff training/education and increased marketing of infant formula.…”

“…According to the available literature, breastfeeding rates in GCC countries are suboptimal and achievement [16][17][18][19][20][21]24,25 High breastfeeding rates Low breastfeeding rates of the 50% universal exclusive breastfeeding goal set by the WHO poses a challenge in this region. 7,10,12 Breastfeeding practices in GCC countries can be improved by adopting universal breastfeeding recommendations and integrating and implementing them using breastfeeding interventions and programmes with the support of policy-makers and community stakeholders.…”

Breastfeeding in Nigeria: a systematic review

“…Studies reviewing the rates of breastfeeding have been carried out in China, Saudi Arabia and Japan. [14][15][16] To the best of knowledge, there is no such study in Nigeria yet; hence, the necessity for this review which aims to contribute to a better understanding of breastfeeding trends in Nigeria. The study provides a summary of breastfeeding practices (rates of "exclusive" and "any breastfeeding", duration of breastfeeding and the reasons for cessation) in Nigeria.…”