Factors Effect Breastfeeding in Sabrata City - Libya
Monia Emhemed Mohammed Abdulhamed
Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zawia, Zawia, Libya.
Aboulgasem E. M. Elgerbi
Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zawia, Zawia, Libya.
Mohanad Abdulhadi Saleh Lawgali *
Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Benghazi, Benghazi, Libya.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Objectives: To estimate prevalence of breastfeeding, mothers’ awareness about breastfeeding, and factors influencing feeding decisions.
Methodology: Study Design and Setting: Hospital-based, cross sectional study in Sabrata Teaching Hospital (STH); from 1st-December 2017 to 31st -May 2018.
Study Population: Mothers in postnatal ward, who delivered their babies in the study period.
Data Collection: Simple interviewing questionnaire.
Results and Conclusion: The study enrolled 480 mothers, among them 234 (48.8%) initiated breastfeeding in the first day. There is a strong association between educational level (P-value 0.02), delivery mode (P-value 0.001), and separation of babies (P-value 0.002) with breast feeding initiation in first day. Feeding plans: 30 (6.2%) bottle feeding only, 80 (16.7%) exclusive breastfeeding, 370 (77.1%) both. Mothers' exclusive breastfeeding support was by: The relatives 446 (92.9%), Obstetrician 248 (51.7%), and Social media 185 (32.9%). While Pediatrician advice for exclusive breastfeeding in 214 (44.6%), and gave no advice on feeding in 260 (54.2%).
We conclude that both the early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding rates are still low, and that we have to improve our job as a Pediatrician to become a hospital that embrace the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI). To reach our overall aim which is to encourage exclusive breastfeeding among mothers.
Keywords: Infants nutrition, exclusive breastfeeding, early breastfeeding initiation, mothers breastfeeding knowledge