Prevalence and factors associated with prelacteal feeding among women at the postpartum unit at Kawempe National Referral Hospital in Kampala, Uganda

Abstract

Background: Prelacteal feeding, the provision of fluids or food to newborns before breastfeeding initiation, contradicts the recommended practice of exclusive breastfeeding, which relies solely on breast milk. This practice is associated with health risks for infants, disrupting the transfer of essential nutrients and antibodies. Sociocultural, economic, and maternal factors contribute to its prevalence, challenging efforts to promote exclusive breastfeeding. Understanding the prevalence and determinants of prelacteal feeding is crucial for guiding effective strategies aimed at promoting optimal newborn health and exclusive breastfeeding practices. Methods: The research utilized a cross-sectional design and was conducted at Kawempe National Referral Hospital. It involved 330 participants selected through random sampling. Prelacteal feeding was defined as giving anything to eat or drink to a newborn other than breast milk within the first 0–3 days of life. Data was collected using a researcher-administered semi-structured questionnaire and summarized using frequencies and percentages and analyzed with SPSS software. Ethical approval was obtained, and results were planned for dissemination to relevant departments and libraries at Makerere University and the hospital. Results: Out of the 330 participants enrolled in the study, 136 (41.2%) practiced prelacteal feeding. The primary reasons reported for practicing prelacteal feeding in the study were insufficient milk supply or delayed lactation (75%). Other factors contributing to prelacteal feeding included elder's advice (16.2%), medical illness (6.6%), and family customs (2.2%). The likelihood of practicing prelacteal feeding was lower among participants who were married (cOR=0.480, 95% CI: 0.304-0.757, p = 0.001), had received health education on infant feeding received such information (cOR=0.294, 95% CI: 0.185-0.467, p = 0.00), had initiated breastfeeding within 1 hour after delivery (aOR = 0.256, 95% CI: 0.158-0.425, p < 0.001), and those who were taught (cOR=0.355, 95% CI: 0.225-0.559, p = 0.00). Conclusions: The prevalence of prelacteal feeding among postpartum mothers in Kawempe National Referral Hospital was high. Accordingly, there is a need to continuously educate mothers and staff on infant feeding practices to tackle the factors influencing prelacteal feeding and promote appropriate infant and young child feeding practices as emphasized in the baby-friendly health facility initiative policy.