Prevalence of breastfeeding and factors associated with the start and duration of exclusive breastfeeding in the Community of Madrid among participants in the ELOIN

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Breastfeeding has important benefits for population health. The aims of this study are: (i) to determine the prevalence and duration of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding; (ii) analyse the reasons for not starting or abandoning of breastfeeding, and (iii) describe the factors associated with the initiation and duration of exclusive breastfeeding. Material and methods Cross sectional study using the baseline data of the ELOIN cohort, obtained using an epidemiological questionnaire. A sample of 2627 children born in 2008–2009 from the Community of Madrid was studied. Logistic regression models were used. Results Prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding and breastfeeding was 77.6% and 88% respectively; prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding at 6 months 25.4%, and prevalence of breastfeeding at 2 years was 7.7%. The most common reasons for abandoning breastfeeding were insufficient milk (36%), and incorporation to work (25.9%). The variables associated with starting or maintaining of exclusive breastfeeding were: mother older than 35 years, medium-high economic status, foreigner residing in Spain less than 10 years, and having participated in a breastfeeding workshop. Conclusions Breastfeeding prevalence in the Community of Madrid did not reach the international recommendations in 2008–2009. It is necessary to intensify strategies for breastfeeding promotion, protection, and support, including their periodic monitoring.