Factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding practices in rural areas in south Benin

Abstract

This study is part of the national programme for the promotion of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and was technically supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency. It aimed to determine the factors leading to the cessation of EBF among mothers living in areas benefiting from an important breastfeeding promotion actions in southern Benin. The practice of EBF was measured using “deuterium oxide dose to the mother” technique in 105 mothers during 6 month’s post-partum. Factors influencing the duration of this practice were investigated through an individual interview with the mothers and their relatives. The prevalence of EBF practice in lactating mothers was 58.7%, 29.1%, and 2.4% at 1, 3, and 6 months postpartum respectively. The main factor favoring this practice at 1 and 3 months was sufficient breastmilk supply. Continuation up to 6 months was due to the support of the family and belief in its benefits. On the other hand, the principal factors that led to its interruption at 1 and 3 months were insufficient breastmilk production and the giving of herbal teas and water to the babies. After 6 months, the drastic drop of EBF was due to the lack of the support from fathers. Integrating these factors into EBF promotion actions might increase practice.

Determinants of Breastfeeding Practices Among Mothers Attending Maternal and Child Health Clinic at Pumwani Hospital Nairobi

“…According to Mututho et al (2017), the main reason for introducing complementary food early was the mother's perception of insu cient breast milk. This nding was in line with another study conducted by Kossou et al (2021) which showed that the perceived lack of su cient breast milk was the main reason for early breastfeeding cessation or early introduction of complementary foods. Mother's perceptions of the impact of EBF on the mother's health, physical appearance, and ability to engage in other activities were shown to consistently have, the strongest relationship with premature EBF cessation among mothers (Constance A Gewa & Joan Chepkemboi, 2016).…”

Examining the prevalence and determinants of early initiation of breastfeeding: Evidence from the 2017/2018 Benin demographic and health survey

“…Studies in Benin have focused on socio-cultural beliefs [ 16 ], factors in rural South [ 23 , 24 ], essential newborn care practices [ 25 ] and provision of support to improve breastfeeding practices [ 26 ]. Although the WHO and United Nation Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Global Strategy for infant and young child feeding recommend three breastfeeding practices, little is known about the prevalence and determinants of EIBF in Benin at the individual, household and community levels.…”