Prevalence, Knowledge, Practices, And Factors Associated With Exclusive Breastfeeding Among Mothers In The Primary Healthcare Setting
Introduction
Exclusive breastfeeding practices worldwide have provided insights into
prevalence, determinants, and challenges. However, the limited research on exclusive
breastfeeding in Guyana warrants an assessment of current knowledge and practices.
Objectives
To evaluate the prevalence, level of knowledge, practice, and associated
factors of exclusive breastfeeding from March to September 2023, among mothers of
infants aged 0 – 6 months at Primary Healthcare centers in Guyana.
Method
This one-time, multi-institutional, descriptive cross-sectional study surveyed
178 lactating mothers with infants aged 0 – 6 months across four Primary Healthcare
centers, using a validated questionnaire.
Results
33.1% (N=59) of mothers were aged 21 – 25 years, 34.3% (N=61) were of African
descent and 72.5% (N=129) had a secondary education. Most identified as Christian (N=127,
71.3%), were in a common-law relationship (N=104, 58.4%), and were unemployed (N=115,
64.6%). The overall prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding from March to September 2023
was 13% (N=24). While knowledge regarding exclusive breastfeeding was generally high,
areas of lower awareness were identified, particularly regarding breastfeeding frequency.
In breastfeeding practices, only 13% (N=24) of the study population practiced exclusive
breastfeeding. African mothers had the highest prevalence (N=15, 24.6%) with a significant
association with exclusive breastfeeding with p value= 0.011.
Conclusion
While the prevalence and practice of exclusive breastfeeding were found to
be lower than the global target, the study revealed a commendable level of knowledge
among mothers regarding exclusive breastfeeding. African ethnicity was significantly
associated with exclusive breastfeeding.
Recommendations
The implementation of comprehensive antenatal and postnatal
breastfeeding education programs will increase maternal knowledge and confidence in
exclusive breastfeeding practices.
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