Factors affecting discontinuation of breast feeding of infants before their first birthday

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to identify the factors affecting discontinuation of breast feeding before the first year of life. The results revealed that about half the mothers who ceased breast feeding were less than 25 years old with low educational background, and the majority of them 82.7% worked outside home. They were primiparas in 60% of cases. Mothers who continued breast feeding tended to have sufficient amounts of food and fluids than others who ceased breast feeding. Certain types of food of fluids which increase milk production were cited by mothers. No significant association was observed between the sex of the infants and discontinuation of breast feeding. Almost all infants had normal birth weight and sucking ability. Maternal causes for discontinuation of breast feeding were insufficient mild, wearing pregnancy and breast problems. No apparent reason related to infants was reported in most instances, though congenital anomalies, poor sucking and refusal were cited by some mothers