Abstract: Infant feeding practices were observed and weaning habits
were examined for 1791 Saudi mothers whom been admitted for delivery at
maternity hospitals in Riyadh. Pre-lactic feeding was practiced by 10.5%
of mothers, 74.4% of mothers performed exclusive Breast feeding, 42% of
them initiate it within the first hour of delivery. Even though not
significant, percentage of mothers who breast-fed was higher among older,
child-bearing, nonworking, of lower family income and less educated
mothers than their contrast. Retrospectively, Breast feeding duration mean
was 11.10±8.37 months and weaning was initiated by 11.3%, 40.8% at the
first month and before the six month of the infant life respectively. Of
mothers, 62% said they are influenced by health providers in their
decision for feeding their babies and in selecting specific brand of milk
or supplementary foods products. However, only 34.7% say they discuss the
feeding practices with health providers and only 21.2% say they think the
role of health providers in supporting mother decision is adequate.
Insufficient breast milk was the main reason for diverting to mixed
feeding while advices by others and mother`s own experience were the most
source of information. Further studies of factors affecting mother`s
determination and practice of Breast feeding are recommended. Polices and
educational efforts to promote exclusive Breast feeding and to prevent
further changes also needed. A real change in health provider`s attitudes
and practices is also emphasized. |