Feeding of infant formula at birth links with feeding of infant formula and discontinuation of breastfeeding in Vietnam

Abstract

Few studies have examined the association between feeding infant formula at birth and future feeding patterns. This study was conducted to examine the association between feeding infant formula in the first 3 days after birth (IF3d) and current feeding infant formula (IFcur), as well as discontinuation of breastfeeding (noBF). In a cross‐sectional survey, we interviewed 10,681 mothers with children aged 0−23.9 mo in Vietnam about current breastfeeding practices and feeding practices during 3 days after birth. The prevalence of feeding IF3d was 52%, higher in those with cesarean delivery (78%) than vaginal delivery (45%, P < 0.01). The prevalence of IFcur in children 0−0.9, 3−3.9, 4−8.9, and 9−23.9 mo fed with IF3d was 31%, 40%, 50% and 50%, which was statistically higher than those who were not fed IF3d (5%, 15%, 30%, and 40%, respectively). The stratified analysis by delivery mode showed a similar trend. At 12 to 14.9 mo, the noBF prevalence was higher in infants fed IF3d than who were not. IF3d was associated with increased prevalence of IFcur (OR: 1.76; 95% CI: 1.58, 1.95) and noBF (OR: 1.32; 95% CI: 1.14, 1.53), which was stronger in the younger infants. Structural equation modeling shows that a) IF3d was associated with higher IFcur (std β: 0.244), which in turn linked with noBF (std β: 0.285) and b) IF3d was associated with cesarean delivery (std β: 0.627), intention of feeding formula at birth (std β: 0.556), and lack of professional breastfeeding support at birth (std β: 0.213; P < 0.01 for all). Support for exclusive breastfeeding in the first 3 days of life can reduce early introduction of infant formula and early cessation of breastfeeding.Funding: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, through Alive & Thrive, managed by FHI 360