Factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding practice among under six month infants in Uganda

Abstract

Exclusive breastfeeding is where infants receive only breast milk, no other solids and liquids are included not even water. Exclusive breastfeeding contributes significantly to child survival and development. This reports a study from different parts in Uganda. The study aims to identify factors influencing mother’s choices of infant feeding practices. This preliminary report found out that 38.48% were currently breastfeeding, but the percentage increases with age. This study used data drawn from 2016 Uganda Demographic and Health survey (UDHS). Various methods were used; multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify factors significantly associated with EBF practice among under six month infants in Uganda. Respondents included were 2,479 lactating mothers. Participants who responded were selected using simple random sampling. SPSS was used for analyzing the data and presented in a descriptive study. Results show respondents ranging in the ages 30-34, 35-39, 40-44 and 45-49 were less likely to exclusively breastfeed their infants compared to those between the ages of 20-24 and 25-29 years. (OR=0.656, 95% CI=0.464-0.928. OR=0.607, 95% CI=0.415-0.886. OR=0.210,95% CI=0.134- 0.329. OR=0.055, 95% CI=0.024-0.125 respectively). Wealth status (OR=0.586,95% CI=0.442- 0.776. OR=0.512. 95% CI=0.356-0.738). Level of education (OR=0.694, 95% CI=0.521-0.925). Marital status (OR=0.670-0.952). were factors significantly associated with EBF practice among under six month infants. In summary, exclusive breastfeeding practice among under six month infants was significantly associated with mother’s age, wealth status, place of residence and occupation. Thus to increase the rate of exclusive breastfeeding in Uganda, it is important that community health is strengthened, and health workers are trained on national breastfeeding policies.