Factors underlying failure of breast feeding in Kuwait

ABSTRACT

In response to a long perceived but only recently marked decline in breast- feeding in Kuwait, this study was conducted to investigate the factors underlying the failure of breast-feed. All 982 infants attending the largest primary health center for vaccination during data gathering period in the five governorates were included in the study. Mothers were interviewed about the method of infant feeding, its characteristics, parental and maternal characteristics known to be associated with feeding. Data were gathered via personal interviews with the mothers. Failure of breast-feeding was significantly associated with improper feeding practices as delayed onset of breast feeding after birth, not giving breast milk as first food and early introduction of supplementary foods. Other significant associates were parental age, education and occupation, mother's knowledge, suffering health problems during pregnancy or labor, her previous pregnancies and the type of contraceptive use. Educational programs emphasizing giving breast milk as the first food shortly after birth, not beginning supplements before the fourth month and using contraceptives other than pills, while breast feeding are to be targeted to middle educated parents at the two extremes of age, working mothers and those suffering problems during pregnancy or labor