Maternal awareness of breastfeeding policies in baby-friendly hospitals in Jordan.

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the maternal perception and awareness of Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) policies. A descriptive, cross-sectional research design was employed. A total of 205 mothers who gave birth in two hospitals in Jordan comprised the sample for this study. A self-administered questionnaire developed from the review of literature and from an audit tool of one of the research settings was used to assess maternal perception of BFHI policies and maternal awareness of breastfeeding. Ethical approval was sought before data collection. Mothers had moderate levels of awareness of breastfeeding importance; further, most of them mentioned the provision of a policy that addresses all the steps to successful breastfeeding as a major facilitator to breastfeeding. In terms of the BFHI, mothers had a moderate level of awareness of breastfeeding initiatives and showed positive perceptions of BFHI policies. Improving maternal perception of BFHI policies and maternal awareness of breastfeeding has the potential to affect breastfeeding uptake and management. Future research is recommended in the areas of (1) identification of barriers to breastfeeding among Jordan mothers, (2) determination of the impact of translating maternal awareness to breastfeeding uptake, and (3) effect of infant gender and antenatal care in breastfeeding initiation and maintenance.