Introduction: Exclusive
breastfeeding (EBF) has the benefits
of reduced rates of infectious
morbidity and mortality. However,
the EBF rate remains low
worldwide including in Côte
d'Ivoire despite efforts by health
authorities.
Objective: The study was carried
out to describe the knowledge and
practices of mothers concerning
infant feeding especially with
regards to breastfeeding from
birth to six months and to identify
factors influencing these practices.
Methods: This was a descriptive
and cross-sectional study conducted
over a one-month period
(1st to 31st August 2014)at a hospital
in Abobo-Avocatier.
Results: A total of 318 mothers
and their infants were recruited.
The median (range) age of the
mothers was 27 (14-40)years.
Over half (64.5%) had some form
of formal education, 78.9% lived
with a partner while 24.5% were
unemployed. The HIV status was
unknown in 29.6% of cases. The
majority of infants (94%), were
born at term through vaginal route
(91.5%) and the median (range)
age was 74 (2-180) days with a
M:F ratio of 1.18.
More than half of mothers received
advice on breastfeeding (57.2%)
mainly by a health care provider
(83%). The overall breastfeeding,
EBF, predominant breastfeeding
and mixed feeding rates were
79.9%, 43.3%, 46.84% and 18.9%
respectively. Initiation rate of
breastfeeding within the first hour
was 29%.The maternal age
(p=0.007) and low birth weight of
the infant (p=0.023) were significantly
associated with EBF. Other
factors associated with EBF include
the mother’s occupation and
being married.
Conclusion: Despite the high overall
rate of breastfeeding in the
study, EBF rates and timely initiation
of breastfeeding after birth
need to be improved. Awareness
campaigns need to be strengthened
and interventions instituted to
scale up optimal breastfeeding
practices.