Breastfeeding in Turkey: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: This study was carried out to systematically review the studies conducted on breastfeeding in Turkey and to provide information on
 the breastfeeding status.
 Methods: This study is a systematic review and conducted by examining 47 studies carried out in Turkey between January 2008-December 2018 and published in national and international journals. The methodological quality of the studies was examined according to the evaluation criteria of the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses checklist was used while reporting the review.
 Results: According to the obtained study results, it was determined that the time of breastfeeding initiation and the mean duration of breastfeeding were in quite a wide range. Among breastfeeding-related factors, maternal age, education, employment status, the number of living children, the type of birth, preterm birth, receiving professional support on breastfeeding, early postnatal breastfeeding, and giving complementary feeding or formula were frequently listed. The most common reason for starting complementary feeding or was determined to be the idea that breast milk was insufficient.
 Conclusion: No common language and unity of definition were observed in the studies reviewed. The studies were conducted in different samples. It is thought that the systematization of studies on breastfeeding will be scientifically useful for determining the current situation, determining the scope of future studies, and making the necessary arrangements.