Breastfeeding Intensity and Associated Factors Among GDM Mothers: Evidence from Malaysia

Abstract

Introduction: Breastfeeding confers numerous protective health effects, particularly concerning mothers associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, breastfeeding rates recorded in the National Health and Morbidity Survey (2016 ) remain unsatisfactory and research shows that breastfeeding practices are notably poor in GDM mothers. This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with breastfeeding intensity among mothers with and without a previous history of GDM. Methods: This cross-sectional study conducted across Malaysia involving 322 mothers with (n=161) and without (n=161) a previous history of GDM. Eligible mothers were randomly recruited and were asked to complete the Infant Feeding Survey through an online survey. Breastfeeding intensity was measured as the percentage of feedings per 24-hour that were from breast milk. Pearson’s Chi-Square test and independent t-test were used to investigate potential significant association between a previous history of GDM and breastfeeding intensity. Multiple linear regression was used to explore any association between sociodemographic and obstetrical variables and breastfeeding intensity. Results: No statistically significant association was found between a previous history of GDM (p=0.612) and breastfeeding intensity (p= 0.410). Mothers without a previous history of GDM who received less than 12 years of education (p= 0.009) and were in the upper-middle wealth quantile (RM3000 – RM6000) (p= <0.001) had significantly reduced rates of breastfeeding intensity. Conclusion: Efforts need to be shifted to strategize and prioritize less educated mothers and working mothers within the identified income capacity so that the aim of intensifying breastfeeding practices can be achieved.