Factors Contributing to Low Exclusive Breastfeeding Rates in Rural Areas of Punjab Pakistan and Their Impact on Infant Health

Abstract

Background: Pakistan has a high infant morbidity and mortality rate. Despite of high mortality rates exclusive breastfeeding up to the age of 6 months is only 37.7%.

Objective: The current study aimed to find the different factors associated with the decreased practice of exclusive breastfeeding.

Result: A total of 81 mothers, 75 mothers-in-laws and 79 fathers were included in the study. 79% of mothers did not practice exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months. Most of the respondents (71%) belonged to rural areas of Punjab. Exclusive breastfeeding practices were found to be better in mothers belonging to the middle-income class. Fathers of infants who were exclusively breastfed had better educational status, 60% of the fathers had at least a primary school level of education and the employment rate was 89%. Mothers’ education level did not affect their willingness to breastfeed. 49% of the mothers who supplemented formula/cow milk to their infants perceived that their milk supply was insufficient, 26% had short intervals between births, and 12% claimed that diluted cow milk promotes weight gain in infants. 11% of the mothers could not breastfeed due to cesarean section and improper positioning.

Conclusion: The lack of support and guidance for mothers in Pakistan leads to the failure of exclusive breastfeeding practices, increasing the risk of infant mortality.