Determinants of early initiation of breastfeeding in children under 59 months' old in northeast Ethiopia

Abstract

Background/Aims Early initiation of breastfeeding takes place within the first hour of life and has maternal and fetal benefits. Despite this, late initiation is prevalent in Ethiopia. This study's aim was to investigate early initiation of breastfeeding and its associated factors in children under 59 months' old in north Wollo, Ethiopia. Methods This institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from November to December 2020 in the north Wollo zone. A total of 385 women who had a child aged 0–59 months and attended selected health institutions (one hospital and nine health centres) were included in the study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using univariable and multivariable logistic regression. Results Overall, 58.2% of women began breastfeeding within the recommended timeframe. Number of antenatal care visits, mode and place of birth and radio use were significantly associated with early initiation of breastfeeding. Conclusions Despite the crucial benefits of early initiation of breastfeeding for mothers and neonates, the prevalence of early initiation in the study area was below recommended levels. Therefore, the authors recommend that health professionals inform mothers to start breastfeeding as early as possible, particularly after a caesarean section. Early initiation should be promoted to all women during the antepartum and intrapartum periods. Understanding the in-depth causes of delayed breastfeeding initiation requires further study.