The Practice of Key Messages for Optimal Breast Feedings and Associated Factors among Lactating Mothers in Boset District, Oromia, Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract Background: Inadequate breastfeeding results in considerable morbidity, mortality, and long-term unfavorable health outcomes. Key messages for optimal breastfeeding are an integral part of Essential Nutritional Action designed to enhance children's nutritional status, especially those under the age of two. However, the level of practice of key messages for optimal breastfeeding and associated factors among lactating mothers remain unknown. Objective: To assess the level of practices of key messages for optimal breastfeeding and associated factors among lactating mothers living in Boset District, Oromia, Ethiopia, 2022. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 418 lactating mothers from January 1st to February 28th, 2022. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Data were collected by interviewer-administered questionnaires. The collected data were entered into Epi info version 7 and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Binary logistic regressions were performed to examine the association between the independent and dependent variables. Adjusted Odds Ratios with a 95% confidence interval were used to estimate the strength of the associations. P-value< 0.05 was used to declare statistical significance. Result: The overall prevalence of key messages for optimal breastfeeding was 63.9% (95% CI: 59.1-68.2). The odds of practicing key messages for optimal breastfeeding were higher for mothers who attended antenatal care four and above times (AOR =2.7, 95% CI: 1.4–5.3), received counseling on breastfeeding during postnatal care (AOR = 3.7, 95% CI: 2.2–6.4), had good knowledge of breastfeeding (AOR = 6.2, 95% CI: 3.6–10.7), and had favorable attitude towards breastfeeding (AOR = 6.1, 95% CI: 3.5–10.6). Conclusion: The practices of breastfeeding key messages were below the recommended universal coverage (90%). The number of antenatal care visits, counseling on breastfeeding, level of knowledge, and attitude towards breastfeeding were factors associated with good practices and key messages for optimal breastfeeding among lactating mothers. Behavioral change communications on key messages for optimal breastfeeding are recommended to improve optimal breastfeeding practices in the study area.