Socioeconomic Factors Influencing Breastfeeding Duration in Bangladesh:An Analysis of the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundThis cross-sectional survey aimed to investigate the socioeconomic factors influencing the Duration of Breastfeeding in Bangladesh, using data from the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS) 2017-18, with a sample of 4,881 mothers having children under two years old. The mean Duration of exclusive Breastfeeding was 15.23 months, with a standard deviation of 9.83 months.MethodsThe study utilized statistical tests such as independent sample t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to identify significant differences in the Duration of Breastfeeding between different groups. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to explore the linear relationship between the Duration of Breastfeeding and other continuous variables. At the same time, multinomial logistic regression analysis was employed to determine the predictors of breastfeeding duration.ResultThe study revealed significant variations in the Duration of exclusive Breastfeeding based on various demographic, health-related, socioeconomic, and anthropometric factors. Women who received antenatal care had a significantly shorter duration of exclusive breastfeeding compared to those who did not receive such care. However, no significant differences were observed in breastfeeding duration between male and female children or between those born via cesarean section versus vaginal delivery. Also, mothers who gave birth in a hospital or clinic breastfed exclusively for a shorter period than those who gave birth at home. Moreover, mothers who worked outside the house had a longer duration of exclusive Breastfeeding than homemakers.The study also noted substantial differences in exclusive breastfeeding duration based on religion and mothers’ body mass index (BMI). Women in the Barisal region breastfed exclusively for a shorter time than those in other regions. Additionally, women classified as underweight (BMI <18.5 kg/m2) breastfed exclusively longer than those with average weight or obese mothers.ConclusionPolicymakers and program implementers can use these findings to work with specific groups of mothers, mainly those less educated, residing regions, or possessing distinct health or socioeconomic characteristics, to promote optimal infant feeding practices and improve overall child health outcomes by breastfeeding practices in Bangladesh.Ethics and consentThis study does not contain personal identifiable information (PII), so ethical approval is not required. Data collection has been done by obtaining consent.