A study of Mothers practices about breast feeding

Abstract

A cross sectional study to identify the rate of mothers practicing breast feeding and causes to discontinue exclusive breast feeding was conducted in Al-A’adamyia primary health center in Baghdad. Sample size was 250 women between the ages of 18-45 and had at least one baby less than 18 months old. Data collected by questionnaire to obtain social and cultural information of mothers in the sample, and their practices of breast feeding and its duration. Results had revealed that 61.2% of mothers were of age group 21-30 years and 34% of them had finished at least 6 years of education. The most prevalent type of infant feeding was breast feeding in a rate of 60%, and 60.8% of mothers had started breast feeding their infants in less than 4 hours after delivery. Women who breast fed their babies believed that it is safer for their infant's health (32.1%) and it gives them psychological support (30.8%). The main causes for discontinuation of exclusive breast feeding were inadequate milk (77%) and sore nipple (23%). Mother’s education, age and job had a relationship on type of infant feeding. Researcher recommends training and teaching pregnant women about the benefits and management of breastfeeding, and encourages breastfeeding on demand. Also help mothers initiate breastfeeding within one half-hour of birth.