Colostrum Avoidance Research Articles

The Prevalence of Exclusive Breastfeeding Practice and Its Predictors in the First Six Months of Life Among Working Mothers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Introduction The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations are early initiation of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for the first six months of infants' lives.Despite the WHO and UNICEF recommendationsand expanding evidence of the significance of exclusive breastfeeding, about two-thirds of infants worldwide have not received exclusive breastfeeding for the six recommended months. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of working mothers exclusively breastfeeding in the first six months of infants' lives and investigate their predictors in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted for four months in 2022. The study included working mothers who have a child in the age range of 6-24 months living in Riyadh. Data was collected through an online questionnaire and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS)version 29 (IBM SPSS Statistics, Armonk, NY) program. Results A sample of 118 participants were included in the study. Their prevalence for EBF practice for the recommended period is 28% (n=33). Around 58.5% (n=69) of the participants did not receive breastfeeding counseling during antenatal visits. Almost half the infants were given prelacteal feeding. Male infants are two times more likely to be exclusively breastfed for the recommended period than female infants. Work-related pressures were a key factor in the discontinuation of breastfeeding (53.4%, n=63). Conclusion This study highlights the lack of breastfeeding counseling and breastfeeding work regulation, alongside concerns about colostrum avoidance and prelacteal feeding. While EBF rates show progress, delayed initiation and work-related pressures remain challenges. Gender disparity in exclusive breastfeeding urges targeted interventions for more equitable outcomes.

Pre-lacteal feeding practice and associated factors among mothers having children aged less than six months in Dilla town, Southern Ethiopia

BackgroundPre-lacteal feeding, the introduction of liquids or non-breast milk foods before establishing regular breastfeeding, poses significant risks to newborns, depriving them of vital nutrients and the protective benefits of colostrum while exposing them to infection hazards. Despite breast milk being a renewable and comprehensive source of infant nutrition for the first six months of life, prevalent in many low income country are pre-lacteal feeds such as honey, sugar-water, jiggery water, castor oil, and goat’s milk. These practices, widespread in such regions, carry potential risks of infection and aspiration. The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of pre-lacteal feeding and identify associated factors among mothers with children under six months in Dilla Town, Southern Ethiopia.MethodA community-based cross-sectional study took place in Dilla town, southern Ethiopia, spanning from June 20 to August 20, 2022. The study included a total of 372 participants, selected through simple random sampling for kebele and systematic random sampling for individual participants. Data was collected using interviewer-administered structured questionnaires and subsequently coded, entered, cleaned, and edited using SPSS version 23.0 software. The presentation of data utilized tables and figures, followed by a logistic regression analysis to identify potential factors associated with pre-lacteal feeding. The significance level was set at a p-value less than 0.05 for the final model.ResultThe prevalence of pre-lacteal feeding practice was 176 (47.3%) in the study area and having no maternal education (AOR = 3.68, 95% CI; [1.01–5.84] colostrum avoidance (AOR = 4.20, 95% CI; [2.03–6.86] and lack of breast feeding counseling (AOR = 2.00, 95% CI; 1.40–2.57), were factors associated with pre-lacteal feeding practices.Conclusion and recommendationPre-lacteal feeding practice among mothers of children aged less than 6 months in Dilla town was found to be higher than the national prevalence. No formal education, colostrum avoidance, lack of breastfeeding counseling, were factors associated with pre-lacteal feeding practices. So awareness creation activities on the risks of PLF (pre-lacteal feeding) and improving breastfeeding counseling targeted to all mothers and care givers including their families within the study area is vital.

Colostrum avoidance and associated factors among mothers of less than 6-month-old children in Dilla town, Southern Ethiopia.

Colostrum, often referred to as "golden milk," is the initial milk produced after birth, crucial for preventing childhood malnutrition and boosting natural immunity. Neglecting colostrum intake heightens vulnerability to infections and mortality, particularly in developing regions of the world. Colostrum avoidance is prevalent in Ethiopia. This research aims to investigate the frequency and factors that contribute to colostrum avoidance in Dilla town, Southern Ethiopia. A community-based, cross-sectional study was carried out in late 2023. Data were gathered from 350 participants, selected through multistage sampling, using structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. Data entry was conducted using Epi Data version 4.2.0 and transferred to Stata version 18 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to identify the factors associated with colostrum avoidance, with a significance level of p < 0.05. The rate of prevalence of colostrum avoidance was 28.3% [95% confidence interval (CI): 18.4%-38.2%]. Late initiation of breastfeeding [adjusted odds ratios (AOR) 4.15, 95% CI: 2.51-6.84] prelacteal feeding, non-use of postnatal care (PNC) (AOR 1.79, 95% CI: 1.05-3.04), and lack of information about colostrum (AOR 1.88, 95% CI: 1.14-3.08) were the factors significantly associated with colostrum avoidance. A high prevalence of colostrum avoidance was observed, with prelacteal feeding, delayed initiation of breastfeeding, lack of PNC, and inadequate maternal knowledge about colostrum identified as contributing factors. Consequently, interventions aimed at reducing colostrum avoidance should prioritize improving access to and promotion of PNC, promoting timely initiation of breastfeeding, and intensifying awareness campaigns highlighting the advantages of colostrum, while emphasizing the risks associated with prelacteal feeding.

Breastfeeding-Related Practices in Rural Ethiopia: Colostrum Avoidance.

The practices of colostrum avoidance and prelacteal feeding, which are common in many developing countries, including Ethiopia, are firmly rooted in ancient traditions. The main objective of this work is to identify the prevalence of colostrum avoidance and study its associated factors among mothers of children aged less than 2 years old in the Oromia region of Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study on the practice of colostrum avoidance/prelacteal feeding was conducted in a rural community with 114 mothers of children under 2 years old. Our results reflected that colostrum avoidance and prelacteal feeding were practiced by 56.1% of mothers. The percentage of women who started breastfeeding in the first hour after birth, as recommended by the WHO, was 2.6%. Of the women who practiced colostrum avoidance, 67.2% gave birth at home, and 65.6% were attended by relatives. The likelihood of avoiding colostrum increases in mothers who have a lower educational level, who did not receive health care at the time of delivery, who think that colostrum is dirty and dangerous and who did not receive information about breastfeeding from healthcare professionals. The knowledge emanating from this work may be useful in designing new breastfeeding education programs and/or interventions in Ethiopia and other developing countries.

Assessment of colostrum avoidance practice and associated factors among mothers of children under 2 years in Debre Berhan town North Shwoa Zone, Ethiopia: a community-based cross sectional study

Background: A Scientific evidence has revealed early feeding of colostrum to the newborn is a key to tackle against harmful germs by coating his intestines, and helping to shield his immune system against germs. Objective: To assess Colostrum avoidance and associated factors among mothers of children under 2 years of age in Debre Berhan town North Shewa Zone, Ethiopia. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted to assess colostrum avoidance practice in Debre Berhan town with total sample of 296 mother’s of children under two years of age from January 15to February 20, 2021. Data were collected by using structured-interview questionnaires from randly selected four kebeles after proportionaly allocated the study population for eah kebeles. Bivariate and Multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to examine the possible predictors and chi-square test was doneto check variables with the statistical association of P-value of &lt; 0.05 and OR with 95% confidence interval were considered. Result: All the study participants were enrolled in making a response rate of 100%.The mean age of the mother was 28.6 with 4.99 Standard deviation and the majority of them were orthodox 197 (66.6%) and 105(35.5%) of mothers were complete secondary education level. Out of 296, 122 (41.2%) of mothers were housewife, 262(88.5%) were married. The prevalence of colostrum avoidance was 17.9%, who did not feed colostrum for their child with different reasons. Out of this mothers who avoid their colostrum milk due to maternal illness 29(54.72%), dirty 4(7.55%) and Yellowish milk with 34(64.15%) of by their own decision and gave other feed 17 (25%).The reasons of colostrum avoidance with avoidance practice x2 =44 with p value &lt;0.01 and COR =1.3(1.1-1.5, Prelacteal feedings were 3.16 higher to avoid their colostrum than those who had aware of colostrum feeding mothers (COR=4.2, AOR=3.16, 95% CI=1.6-6.19) were statistically associated with colostrum avoidance. Conclusion and recommendation: To improve neonatal health and growth, maternal awareness is decisive factor through delivering health education and promoting immediate colostrum feeding practice therefore, attention is required by community health workers to work on it.

Colostrum avoidance practice and associated factors among mothers of infants less than six months in Chencha District: cross-sectional study

BackgroundColostrum avoidance is failure to feed first breast milk to a newborn baby for the first 2 to 3 days after delivery. The problem of avoiding colostrum is prevalent in Ethiopia. But it is not adequately addressed yet. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess prevalence of colostrum avoidance practices and associated factors among mothers of infants aged less than six months; and to explore barriers for colostrum feeding in ChenchaZuria District.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study supplemented with a qualitative study was conducted in August 2020. The quantitative data were collected from 674 mothers selected by systematic sampling using a structured questionnaire. Both bi-variable and multi-variable binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with the colostrum avoidance practices. The statistical significance was declared at a p-value < 0.05. The qualitative data were collected using in-depth interviews from breastfeeding mothers and thematic analysis was done manually.ResultThe prevalence of the colostrum avoidance practice was 15.3% (95% CI: 11.4%- 18.2%). Late initiation of breastfeeding (AOR 4.15 95% CI 2.51–6.84), giving pre-lacteal feeding (AOR 3.16 95% CI 1.93–5.15), not using of postnatal care (PNC) service (AOR 1.79 95% CI 1.05–3.04), and having poor maternal knowledge regarding colostrum. (AOR 1.88 95% CI 1.14–3.08) were factors significantly associated with the colostrum avoidance practices. And in the qualitative part, cultural beliefs and misconceptions, community influence, and complementary feeding practices were found to be facilitators for the colostrum avoidance.ConclusionAbout one in seven mothers practiced colostrum avoidance. Factors that contributed to the colostrum avoidance practices were breastfeeding initiation, pre-lacteal feeding, PNC utilization, and maternal knowledge regarding colostrum. Thus, efforts to prevent colostrum avoidance practices should focus on strengthening and promoting PNC services utilization, timely initiation of breastfeeding, and improving awareness creation activities on the importance of colostrum feeding and risks of pre-lacteal feeding.

Colostrum Avoidance Practices and Its Associated Factors among Mothers of Children Aged Less Than 12 Months in Jinka Town, South Ethiopia, 2020. A Community Based Cross Sectional Study.

BackgroundEven though colostrum discarding hurts child health, little is known about the extent of the problem and its contributing factors in Southern Ethiopia. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of colostrum avoidance practices and associated factors among mothers of children aged less than 12 months in Jinka town, South Ethiopia.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Jinka Town from March 1 to 30, 2020. A total of 420 mothers having children less than 12 months of age were selected by systematic sampling technique. The data were collected by using pretested interviewer-administered and semi-structured questionnaires. The data was entered using EPI DATA 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 23 for analysis. Descriptive statistics, binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis were done. Adjusted odds ratio with 95% CI at a p-value < 0.05 was estimated to identify statistically significant variables with colostrum avoidance practices.ResultsThe prevalence of colostrum avoidance practice was 9.8% [95% CI: (6.9–12.5)]. Delayed initiation of breastfeeding [AOR = 9.08(95% CI 4.16–19.83)], lack of breastfeeding counseling [AOR = 2.33(95% CI 1.11–4.87)], home delivery of index child [AOR = 2.48 (95% CI 1.16–5.27)] and poor knowledge on breastfeeding [AOR = 4.55(95% CI 1.95–10.63)] were factors associated with colostrum avoidance practices.ConclusionColostrum avoidance practice among mothers of children aged less than 12 months in Jinka town was high. Delayed initiation of breastfeeding, lack of breastfeeding counseling, home delivery, and knowledge of breastfeeding practice were factors associated with colostrum avoidance practice.

Delayed breast feeding initiation increases the odds of colostrum avoidance among mothers in Northwest Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundColostrum is a yellowish and sticky breast milk produced in late pregnancy. Annually, 60% of 10.9 million under-five deaths globally are due to malnutrition. Of these, over two-thirds of the deaths are accounted by sub-optimal feeding practices in the first year of life, including colostrum discarding. However, evidence on the magnitude of colostrum avoidance and its associated factors at the community level is very limited in Ethiopia, particularly in the study area.Thus, this study aimed to assess the magnitude of colostrum avoidance and associated factors among mothers who gave birth in the last six months in Gozamen district, northwest Ethiopia, 2019.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 741 (741) mothers who gave birth in the last six months in Gozamen district from August 1 to September 12, 2019. A stratified cluster sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Data were collected by face-to-face interviewer-administered, pretested, and semi-structured questionnaire. Binary logistic regressions (bi-variable and multivariable) were fitted to identify statistically significant variables. Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was used to declare statistically significant variables on the basis of p-value < 0.05 in the multivariable binary logistic regression.ResultsThis study indicated that the magnitude of colostrum avoidance was 22.1% (95% CI, 19.0, 25.2%).Mothers who did not get counseling on timely initiation of breast feeding (AOR = 3.91[95% CI, 1.98, 7.72]), not participate in pregnant woman forum (AOR = 2.59[95% CI, 1.30, 5.14]), initiate breast-feeding lately (more than 1 h) (AOR 2.27[95% CI, 1.18, 4.34]), and those having unfavorable attitude towards colostrum feeding (AOR = 7.35[95% CI, 3.89, 13.91]) were factors associated with the increased likelihood of colostrum avoidance. However, institutional delivery (AOR; 0.06[95% CI, 0.02, 0.19]) and prelacteal feeding (AOR; 0.10[95% CI, 0.05, 0.21]) were predictors associated with reduced likelihood of colostrum avoidance.ConclusionColostrum avoidance is a common practice in the study area. Therefore, in order to reduce this practice, strengthening infant feeding counseling, promoting institutional delivery, timely initiation of breastfeeding, health education, and community advocating are recommended interventions. In addition, creating awareness on the benefits of colostrum feeding is very instrumental to tackle the practice of colostrum avoidance.

Colostrum avoidance practice among primipara mothers in urban Northwest Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study

BackgroundBreast milk is the ideal and complete form of nutrition for infants colostrum contains all the necessary nutrients for infants’ growth and development and antibodies that can protect from many childhood illnesses. Understanding the extent of and barriers to colostrum avoidance in Ethiopia is important for learning how to best improve optimal breastfeeding. No single study has been conducted on primigavida mothers in the country. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the rate of colostrum avoidance practice and associated factors among primigavida mothers.MethodA community- based cross-sectional study was conducted from March to April 2016 among (n = 398) randomly selected primigavida mothers in Bahir Dar city, northwest Ethiopia. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version25. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was used to measure the strength of association. Statistical significance was declared at P-value ≤0.05.ResultsOut of 398 primipara mothers, 8.8% discarded colostrum. The most common reasons for discarding colostrum were; yellow and creamy (39.2%), bad for infant (35.2%), traditional/cultural reason (17.1%) and infant unable to feed (8.5%). Married mothers (AOR = 4.52, 95%CI: 1.13, 18.16), unemployed mothers (AOR = 3.46, 95%CI: 1.15, 10.51), mothers underwent normal delivery (AOR = 5.20, 95%CI: 1.87, 20.90) and mothers who initiated breastfeeding within 1 h (AOR = 2.79, 95%CI: 0.96, 8.16) were less likely to discard colostrum.ConclusionThe current study revealed that colostrum was discarded by 8.8% of primipara mothers. Primipara mothers who were married, unemployed, underwent normal delivery and initiated breastfeeding within 1 h were less likely to discard colostrum. These results suggest that multi-sectorial and multi-disciplinary approaches are needed to decrease colostrum avoidance among primipara mothers in Ethiopia.

Determinants of Early Days of Newborn Feeding Malpractice Among Mothers of Children Less Than One Year of Age in Mizan-Aman Town, Southwestern Ethiopia, 2020.

BackgroundSuboptimal breastfeeding practices have remained a global public health issue, particularly in Ethiopia due to early days of newborn breastfeeding practices. Although several measures have been taken to comply with the WHO guidelines, newborn feeding malpractices are widely seen in Ethiopia.ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence and determinant of early days of newborn feeding malpractices among recently delivered women in Mizan-Aman Town, southwestern Ethiopia, 2020.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study of recently delivered women was conducted between March 5/2020 and April 8/2020. A total of 487 mother-to-child (<12month) pairs were selected using a multi-stage randomized sampling technique and the data were collected through a face-to-face interview using a structured questionnaire. The result was analyzed via SPSS version 26. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to assess the determinant of newborn feeding malpractices and a p<0.05 was deemed to be significant.ResultsPrevalence of prelacteal feeding, delayed initiation of breastfeeding and colostrum avoidance was approximately 21.9%, 35.5% and 15.5%, respectively. The most common prelacteal food was Rue/“Tenadam”/49 (10.1%). The key reasons for this were: 49 (10.1%) Cultural activity followed by 45 (9.3%) intestinal/ghost/birth clean-ups. Determinants of prelacteal feeding were found to be: mothers who recognize the risks of prelactate feeding, multipara mothers, had ≥4 children and infants birth order between 4 and 6. Likewise, exposure to infant formula advertising, absence of home-to-home health education, multipara mothers and spontaneous vaginal birth were the determinants of colostrum avoidance.ConclusionThe study found that one in four and one-third of newborns had experience with prelacteal and delayed breastfeeding, respectively. This makes the newborn feeding practice suboptimal in the city. As a result, behavioral modification programs on the prevention of prelacteal feeding and enhancement of early initiation of colostrum feeding practices are recommended.

Colostrum avoidance practice and associated factors among mothers of children aged less than six months in Bure District, Amhara Region, North West, Ethiopia: A community-based cross-sectional study.

IntroductionThe World Health Organization and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund jointly recommend colostrum feeding immediately following delivery of the newborn. Colostrum avoidance is the practice of discarding colostrum at least once within the first three days after delivery of the newborn. Colostrum contains antibodies that protect the newborn against disease. Despite this fact, many Ethiopian mothers see colostrum feeding as a cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality, and they believe colostrum should be discarded to alleviate its effects. However, the cause of this misconception about colostrum is not well researched in Ethiopia, particularly in the study area.ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence of colostrum avoidance and associated factors among mothers of children aged less than six months in Bure district, Amhara Region, North West, Ethiopia.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 1st to 30th, 2019 in Bure district. Structured questionnaires and face to face interviews were used to collect data from 621 study participants. Multistage sampling technique was used to select study participants. Data were entered into Epi Data version 4.2.0 and then exported to Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 23. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify predictors of colostrum avoidance practice.ResultsSix hundred twenty-one (621) mothers of children aged less than six months participated. The prevalence of colostrum avoidance was 14.5% (95%CI; 11.5–17.4). The multivariate analysis indicated that home delivery [AOR = 3.350, (95%CI; 2.517–14.847)], giving birth through cesarean section [AOR = 3.368, (95%CI; 1.339–8.471)], no participation in an antenatal care group [AOR = 1.889, (95%CI; 1.144–3.533)], poor knowledge of mothers about colostrum [AOR = 3.44, (95%CI; 2.45–4.977)], and poor attitude of mothers towards colostrum [AOR = 3.053, (95%CI; 1.157–8.054)] were important predictors of colostrum avoidance practice.Conclusion and recommendationsHome delivery, giving birth through cesarean section, no participation in an antenatal care group, poor knowledge of mothers about colostrum, and poor attitude of mothers towards colostrum were significantly associated with colostrum avoidance practice. Therefore, health care workers in the district should promote institutional delivery, reduce the magnitude of cesarean section, encourage pregnant mothers to participate in an antenatal care group, and enhance maternal awareness about the merits of colostrum feeding. Moreover, health educations for mothers to have a positive attitude towards colostrum are important recommendations to be taken to prevent the further practice of colostrum avoidance.

The effect of antenatal care on colostrum avoidance in pastoralists: The case of Afar, Northeast Ethiopia.

Breastfeeding is sufficient for infants in the first 6 months of life and is important to maintain maternal health. Evidences revealed that neonatal mortality is higher among children who received colostrum as compared to those who are deprived of colostrum. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the factors associated with colostrum avoidance practice among pastoralists in Afar Regional State, Northeast Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 1188 mother-child pairs in Afar Regional State in June 2016. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were carried out to identify the predictors of colostrum avoidance. Statistical significance was declared at P-value <.05. About 40% of children deprived of colostrum. Mothers aged 20 to 34 years (AOR: 1.79; 95% CI: 1.18, 2.73), not attending antenatal checkup (AOR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.64, 2.85), receiving prelacteal feeding (AOR: 2.21; CI: 1.88, 3.93) and late initiation of breastfeeding (AOR: 2.71; 95% CI: 2.02, 3.65) were positively associated with colostrum avoidance. Nearly 4 in 10 children deprived of colostrum. Therefore, promoting antenatal care and strengthening service-based counseling on proper newborn feeding practices will be important to improve colostrum feeding.

Nearly one-in-five mothers avoid colostrum in North Wollo Zone, Ethiopia: an institution-based cross-sectional study.

Colostrum contains antibodies that protect the newborn against disease. Despite this fact, many Ethiopian mothers see colostrum feeding as a cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. These mothers believe that colostrum must discard to alleviate this effect. However, the cause of this misconception about colostrum was not well researched, particularly in this study area. The main aim of the present study was to assess colostrum avoidance and associated factors among mothers having children aged 6-59 months in North Wollo Zone, Northeastern Ethiopia. An institution-based cross-sectional study design was used. Descriptive statistics, binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used for the statistical analysis. The prevalence of colostrum avoidance was 19 % (95 % CI 15⋅03, 22⋅89 %) among mother-child pair aged 6-59 months. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, the most important predictors were breast-feeding initiation Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) 6⋅369; 95 %, Confidence Interval (CI) (3⋅067, 13⋅224), pre-lacteal feeding AOR 3⋅464; 95 % CI (1⋅721, 6⋅973), shared household decision about child feeding AOR 3⋅585; 95 % CI (1⋅563, 7⋅226), Index child sex AOR 2⋅103; 95 % CI (1⋅015, 4⋅358) and health facility delivery AOR 3⋅033; 95 % CI (1⋅293, 7⋅117). The colostrum avoidance in the present study was 19 %. The study recommends the promotion of institutional delivery, timely initiation of breast-feeding, the shared household decisions about child feeding, avoiding sex preferences and stopping pre-lacteal feeding were critically important.

Pre-lacteal feeding practices and associated factors among mothers of children aged less than 12 months in Jinka Town, South Ethiopia, 2018/19.

Pre-lacteal feeding is one of the major harmful practices being faced while feeding the newborns. Although it affects child health, little is known about the extent of the problem and its contributing factors in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to figure the prevalence of pre-lacteal feeding practices and associated factors among mothers of children aged less than 12 months in Jinka Town. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Jinka Town from March 1 to 30, 2019. A total of 430 mothers, having children less than 12 months of age, were selected by systematic sampling technique. The data were collected by using pretested and interviewer- administered structured questionnaires. The data were entered using epidata 4.2.1 and exported to SPSS version 23 for analysis. Adjusted odds ratios, 95% confidence intervals and p-values were reported. The prevalence of pre-lacteal feeding practice was 12.6% [95% CI (9.5-15.7)]. Having no maternal education [AOR = 4.82(95%CI 1.60-14.24)], colostrum avoidance [AOR = 4.09(95% CI 1.62-7.67)], lack of breast feeding counseling [AOR: = 2.51(95% CI 1.20-5.25)], home delivery [AOR = 3.34 (95% CI 1.52-7.33)], lack of knowledge about risks of pre-lacteal feeding [AOR = 2.86 (95% CI 1.30-6.29] and poor knowledge on breast feeding practices [AOR = 3.63(95% CI 1.62-8.11)] were factors associated with pre-lacteal feeding practices. Pre-lacteal feeding practice among mothers of children aged less than 12 months in Jinka town was found to be higher than the national prevalence. Illiterate, colostrum avoidance, lack of breastfeeding counseling, home delivery, lack of knowledge on the risk of pre-lacteal feeding, and poor knowledge on breastfeeding practice were factors associated with pre-lacteal feeding practices.

Determinants of Colostrum Avoidance among Postpartum Mothers in North West Ethiopia

Background & aim: Colostrum feeding has a significant health benefit for neonates and infants, particularly in low-income countries, such as Ethiopia which has greater magnitudes of child starvation and mortality. However, colostrum is not given to newborns in the area under study for a various socio-cultural reasons and misconceptions. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the determinant of colostrum avoidance among postpartum mothers in Ethiopia. Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study was performed in Debre Tabor General Hospital, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia, from January 2 to June 28, 2019. A total of 437 postpartum mothers who had a child ≤ 6 weeks of age were included in this study. A systematic random sampling method was applied, and an interviewer administered the structured questionnaires to collect the data. Data analysis was performed in SPSS software (version 23) using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression. Results: The prevalence rate of colostrum avoidance was found to be 10.5%. According to the results, the determinants of colostrum avoidance were postpartum mothers with non-formal educational status [AOR=3.1, 95%C1=1.51-6.32], rural residency [AOR =5.2, 95%Cl =2.60-10.40], primiparity [AOR =5.1, 95%Cl =2.30-11.57], and lack of receiving counseling about breastfeeding during antenatal care [AOR =2.6, 95%Cl =1.32-5.47]. Conclusion: The prevalence rate of colostrum avoidance was low in Debre Tabor General Hospital, compared to the results of other studies. Nevertheless, it is recommended to give routine and detailed counseling about breastfeeding during antennal care to decrease colostrum avoidance.

Early initiation of breastfeeding, colostrum avoidance, and their associated factors among mothers with under one year old children in rural pastoralist communities of Afar, Northeast Ethiopia: a cross sectional study

BackgroundEarly initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) is defined as initiation of breastfeeding within 1 h of birth. This is also the time colostrum is secreted with its potential benefits. Globally, two out of five under 5 children die in the first month of life, more than a third of which being on the first day. Neonatal mortality is still a major health problem in Ethiopia. EIBF and colostrum feeding are associated with decreased neonatal morbidity and mortality. With this study, we aim to determine the magnitude and factors associated with EIBF and colostrum avoidance.MethodsA community based cross-sectional study was conducted from May to June 2016 on 390 mothers in Afar region. Bivariate logistic regression was used to identify the association between the independent and the outcome variables. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the independent predictors of EIBF and colostrum avoidance. The strength of the association was measured by odds ratio and 95% confidence interval, and p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Hosmer and Lemeshow test was used to test model goodness of fitness and multi-collinearity between independent variables was checked.ResultsAbout 248(63.6%) respondents initiated breastfeeding within 1 h of birth. Mothers whose delivery was attended by a health professional had 4.75 times higher odds (AOR 4.75; 95% CI 1.71, 13.19) of EIBF as compared to those who were attended by others. Trust on nurses to provide pregnancy care (AOR 5.59; 95% CI 1.05, 29.8) was significantly associated with EIBF. About 300(76.9%) respondents discarded colostrum. Mothers who had no discussion with TBA on child nutrition were 6.6 times (AOR 6.63; 95% CI 1.43, 30.63) more likely to avoid colostrum than their counterparts.ConclusionMore than one-third of infants didn’t start breastfeeding within 1 h of birth and three-fourth of the mothers discarded colostrum. Therefore, it is important to develop and/or strengthen services/advice on EIBF including colostrum feeding. Promoting delivery by health professionals, discussion on child nutrition and building trust between mothers and health professionals can be important community interventions to encourage EIBF and colostrum feeding.

A Qualitative Enquiry into the Tribal Mothers’ Breastfeeding and Related Hygiene Practices in Kerala

Background: Adequate and appropriate breastfeeding is critical to child survival, growth and development; however, there are widespread inconsistencies in breastfeeding practices with respect to its adequacy and appropriateness, especially in historically marginalize tribes in Kerala. Hence, this study explored breastfeeding and related hygiene practices of tribal mothers with children aged between 0 to 24 months. Method: We conducted 10 FGDs to collect data from five districts with significant proportion of tribal populations in Kerala, using a qualitative descriptive approach to enquiry. Two groups of participants were selected. First group was biological mothers and the second group was grandmothers of children aged between 0-24 months. All FGD participants were purposively selected and thematic analysis was used for data analysis. Results: Hospital delivery has reduced prelacteal feeding. Perceptions of inadequate breastmilk relate with delayed initiation of BF. BF is predominantly demand driven. Communal norms sanction long duration of breastfeeding and nearly all mothers knew EBF. Perceptions of perceptions of inadequate breastmilk relate with early initiated CF. BF benefits to children are in terms of health, cognition, emotional bonding and growth but are harmful for mothers’ health and beauty. Mothers with poor family support face multiple role-related strains. Nearly all mothers have information of colostrum feeding and EBF for 0-6 months but EBF practice was suboptimal. Mothers enjoying poor family support face multiple role-related strains leading to suboptimal breastfeeding. Conclusions: The colostrum avoidance and prelacteal feeding was less frequent due to hospital deliveries but many believed that breastmilk alone was insufficient to newborns, leading to early CF. Proactive breastfeeding was less frequent and knowledge about breastfeeding benefits was child centric. Mothers’ work and household chores conflict with breastfeeding frequency.

Colostrum Avoidance and Breastfeeding Practices Among Mothers of Khos Tribal Community of Uttarakhand: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Colostrum Avoidance and Breastfeeding Practices Among Mothers of Khos Tribal Community of Uttarakhand: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Effects of home delivery on colostrum avoidance practices in North Wollo zone, an urban setting, Ethiopia: a cross sectional study

BackgroundColostrum is the first liquid that is produced in the first few days after delivery. It is the perfect first food for newborns which is considered as an infant’s first immunization. Despite of this fact colostrum is discarded as unclean and bad for the infant’s health. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and the factors associated with colostrum avoidance in Woldia, Kobo and Lalibela town administrations of North Wollo zone.MethodsA quantitative community based cross sectional study was employed in March 2015 on 810 mothers of children aged less than 24 months. Descriptive statistics, binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis were employed to identify the factors associated with colostrum avoidance. Variables with a p-value < 0.05 in the multivariable model were identified as predictors of colostrum avoidance practices.ResultsColostrum was discarded by 12.0% (95%CI: 10.0–14.0%) of mothers of children aged less than 24 months. In multivariable logistic regression analysis late initiation of breastfeeding [AOR (95% CI) =2.03 (1.18, 3.49)], prelacteal feeding [AOR (95% CI) =3.38 (1.83, 6.24)], mothers not living with their husband [AOR (95% CI) = 2.24 (1.22, 4.12)] and delivering the index child at home [AOR (95% CI) =2.92 (1.521, 5.59)] were independent positive predictors of colostrum avoidance practices.ConclusionThe foundation of any nutrition package for the prevention of childhood malnutrition is the promotion of an optimal breastfeeding practices, including colostrum feeding, in the community. Therefore, promoting institutional delivery, early initiation of breastfeeding and creating awareness on the dangers of prelacteal feeding and the advantages of colostrum feeding are recommended interventions to reduce colostrum avoidance practices in the study area.

Where there is no weighing scale: Newborn nourishment and care in Pakistani Punjab

A third of babies in South Asia are born low birthweight, more than in sub-Saharan Africa. This epidemiological enigma has been linked to gender and generational inequalities and to poor health and nutrition over the whole of women's lives. High rates of breastfeeding initiation are accompanied by high rates of colostrum avoidance, the giving of prelacteal feeds and early supplementation with formula or animal milks as well as other substances. Meanwhile, in Pakistan – despite the extensive presence of public community maternal and child health workers – very few babies are weighed at birth. This paper draws on an ethnographic study conducted in 2014–16 in rural and urban Punjab, to shed light on the interpretation, nourishment and care of newborns who are identified to be kamzoor (weak), and to comment on the extent to which carers' efforts are influenced by community health workers, who are charged with spreading modern biomedical knowledge and practices. Kamzoori is understood to be caused by maternal depletion and is managed at home by augmenting breastfeeding and giving supplementary milks, and by keeping the baby warm and massaged. In cases where weak newborns do not recover weight, spiritual explanations are invoked and treated through a variety of home remedies/methods. There are often similarities between the interpretations of mothers, grandmothers, and health workers. The paper considers health workers to be engaged in complex cultural mediations.