Individual and socio-cultural factors affecting initiation of breastfeeding among post-natal mothers at Kawanda Health Center III. A cross-sectional study.

Vollständiger Abstract

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Introduction: Early initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour after birth is crucial for neonatal survival, immunity, and mother-to-infant bonding. This study assessed individual and socio-cultural factors affecting initiation of breastfeeding among post-natal mothers attending Kawanda Health Center III, Wakiso District. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 36 post-natal mothers attending postnatal and maternity services at Kawanda Health Center III. Participants were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using a semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire, entered into Microsoft Excel, and analyzed. Then presented as frequencies and percentages. Results were presented in tables, figures, and narrative form. Results: Findings on demographic characteristics revealed that, according to age, the majority, 12 (33.3%), of the respondents were in the age group 20-29 years, and the minority, 6 (16.5%), were aged 40 years and above. Tertiary level was considered to be the minority, 4(11%), while those with no formal education constituted 6(16%). Individual-level challenges included a lack of prior information; 22(61%) had not received breastfeeding information before delivery, low confidence 20(56%) slightly confident, practical difficulties 24(67%) experienced challenges at initiation. Socio- cultural barriers were prominent: 23(64%) of mothers reported that cultural beliefs influenced newborn feeding, 22(61%) had received advice on pre-lacteal feeds, and 17(47%). Conclusion: Inadequate antenatal and postnatal breastfeeding information, low maternal confidence, socio-cultural beliefs promoting pre-lacteal feeding, and weak family/partner support greatly affected the initiation of breastfeeding. Recommendations: Intensifying community sensitization to counter harmful cultural beliefs such as pre-lacteal feeding, and promoting family and male-partner involvement in newborn feeding decisions.