Breast feeding; factors causing early termination

ABSTRACT

To identify the factors, causing the early termination of breast feeding i.e. from birth to six months of age. A cross sectional study. Outpatient Department of Ziauddin Medical University, Kemari Campus, Karachi. June 2008 to December. 2008. A structured questionnaire was put to mothers of children up to two years of age attending the outpatient department of pediatrics. Significant associations existed between the early termination of breast feeding and family income, family structure [nuclear vs. extended], mode of delivery, delayed in initiation of breast feeding early weaning and antenatal counseling with a p-value of <0.05. Provision of adequate prenatal counseling, early initiation, proper economical and environmental support, backup and encouragement are key factors associated with prolonged breast feeding among women