Abstract

Aim: Breastmilk is an ideal specific food for infants especially in the first 6 months of life. In developing countries, although initiation rates of breastfeeding are high, continuation rates at 6th month are behind expectations. Recently, maternal knowledge on breastfeeding is reported to be an important factor on the duration of breastfeeding. The aim of this study is to evaluate the maternal knowledge and psychosocial factors on exclusive breastfeeding. Methods: This prospective study was done on 300 healty mothers (mean age 25.5±4.7 year) who has started breasfeeding after delivery and their babies, born in time with spontaneous delivery. Demographic and sociocultural characteristics of the mothers were stated. A questionnaire including 10 questions about the benefits and the properties of breastmilk was conducted on the mothers. The ones, giving at least 8 correct answers were accepted to be (well knowledged' while 5-7 correct answers were accepted as (moderate'' and less than 5 correct answers were accepted as 'poor knowledged'. All mothers and their babies were evaluated on their first (15 days-1 month), second (2-3 months) and third visits (6-7 months) for infant feding patterns, maternal knowledge and psychosocial factors influencing on exclusiue breastfeeding. Chi-square was used for statistical analysis and p<0.05 was accepted as significant. Results: The exclusive breastfeeding rates were 51%, 28.7% and 1 7.3% on the first, second and third visits, respectiuely. Being well-knowledged on breastfeeding was a significantly influencing factor on exclusive breastfeeding (p<0.05). Schooling at least for five years, being informed on breastfeeding prenatally and by medical professionals were statistically important (p<0.05). Mothers who knew that breastmilk was sufficient for infants in the first 6 months and that it could be stored after expressing were more likely to continue exclusive breastfeeding (p<0.05). The most important psychosocial factors were found to be the spouses'' and family members' positive attitude and previous breastfeeding experience. Conclusion: Maternal knowledge status on breastfeeding, maternal education and being informed prenatally and by medical professionals are factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life.