Investigation of feeding characteristics of babies for 0-12 months: Aydın province sampling

Abstract

Purpose: Mothers' practices of complementary feeding and exclusive breastfeeding may differ relative to various factors. The objectives of this research were to investigate the mothers' practices of their babies' nutrition and the factors affecting them in the sample of Aydın province. Materials and methods: The analytical and cross-sectional designed research was carried out in a total of 23 Family Health Centers in the Efeler district of Aydın province. The research sample consisted of 350 mothers with 12-24 months old babies. The research data was collected using data collection forms, which were filled out by face-to-face interviews with mothers after their verbal approval was obtained. Results: The exclusive breastfeeding duration was 6 (0-9) months, and the time to start complementary feeding was 6 (4-10) months. The exclusive breastfeeding duration of babies of high school graduate mothers was shorter. Babies in extended families had longer exclusive breastfeeding duration, and there was a weak positive correlation between the numbers of family members and exclusive breastfeeding duration. Mothers with lower income levels started complementary feeding earlier, and mothers who started complementary feeding earliest were high school graduates among the education groups. Conclusion: The research showed that the rate of starting complementary feeding early (30.6%) was not low, and mothers had insufficient knowledge about exclusive breastfeeding and appropriate complementary feeding practices. Therefore, training courses on baby nutrition should be given to mothers.