Prelacteal feeding practices in Pakistan: a mixed-methods study

Do various types of prelacteal feeding (PLF) have different associations with breastfeeding duration in Indonesia? A cross-sectional study using Indonesia Demographic and Health Survey datasets

INTRODUCTION

Prelacteal feeding (PLF) is anything other than breastmilk given to newborns in the first few days of birth and/or before breastfeeding is established. PLF comes in many forms and is known as a challenge to optimal breastfeeding. Interestingly, both breastfeeding and PLF are common in Indonesia. This study investigated the association between PLF (any PLF, formula, honey, water and other milk) and breastfeeding duration.

METHODS

This study used Indonesia Demographic and Health Surveys data from 2002, 2007 and 2017. Sample sizes were 5558 (2007), 6268 (2007) and 6227 (2017) mothers whose last child was aged 0-23 months. We used Cox regression survival analysis to assess the association between PLF and breastfeeding duration, estimating hazard ratios (HR) for stopping earlier.

RESULTS

Overall PLF was prevalent (59%, 67% and 45% in 2002, 2007 and 2017, respectively), with formula being the most common (38%, 50% and 25%). No association between any PLF and breastfeeding duration in 2002 (HR 0.90 (95% CI 0.70 to 1.16)), but in 2007 and 2017, mothers who gave any PLF were more likely to stop breastfeeding earlier than those who did not (HR 1.33 (95% CI 1.11 to 1.61) and 1.47 (95% CI 1.28 to 1.69), respectively), especially in the first 6 months (HR 2.13 (95% CI 1.55 to 2.92) and 2.07 (95% CI 1.74 to 2.47), respectively). This association was more consistent for milk-based PLF. For example, HR in 2017 was 2.13 (95% CI 1.78 to 2.53) for prelacteal formula and 1.73 (95% CI 1.39 to 2.15) for other milk. The associations were inconsistent for the other PLF types. Prelacteal water showed no association while prelacteal honey showed some association with a longer breastfeeding duration in 2002 and 2007.

CONCLUSION

The impact of PLF on breastfeeding duration varied by type. While this study supports current recommendations to avoid PLF unless medically indicated, the potential consequences of different PLF types on breastfeeding outcomes should be clearly communicated to healthcare providers and mothers. Further research should explore the reasons for the high PLF prevalence in this setting.

Beliefs, Experiences, and Practices of Lady Health Workers in Facilitating Breastfeeding in Rural Communities in Pakistan

Pakistan has extremely poor breastfeeding indicators: fewer than half of infants under 6 months are exclusively breastfed, only 20% of infants are breastfed within the first hour of life, and nearly half are never fed colostrum. The country's high infant morbidity and mortality is in part due to this suboptimal infant feeding. A network of lady health workers (LHWs) employed by the government facilitate maternal and child health programs, including breastfeeding support in their communities. This study describes LHWs' perspectives and experiences regarding breastfeeding. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 14 LHWs and used thematic qualitative analysis to code and analyze the data. Our research revealed that LHWs use their role as members of the community and involve influential members of the family to build trust. Frequent home visits beginning prenatally help them address misconceptions about infant feeding. While they have strong knowledge about the benefits of breastfeeding and the importance of colostrum, they demonstrate gaps in their knowledge regarding breast conditions, the safe preparation of human milk substitutes, the physiology of milk production, and supporting mothers who are separated from their baby. Future training should address these areas where LHWs lack knowledge to help mothers facilitate early and exclusive breastfeeding. With adequate training, LHWs are uniquely positioned to use their role as trusted members of the community to effectively counsel families on the importance of breastfeeding and support the clinical needs of women during the perinatal time.

Newborn care knowledge and practices among care givers of newborns and young infants attending a regional referral hospital in Southwestern Uganda

A child born in developing countries has a 10 times higher mortality risk compared to one born in developed countries. Uganda still struggles with a high neonatal mortality rate at 27/1000 live births. Majority of these death occur in the community when children are under the sole care of their parents and guardian. Lack of knowledge in new born care, inappropriate new born care practices are some of the contributors to neonatal mortality in Uganda. Little is known about parent/caregivers' knowledge, practices and what influences these practices while caring for the newborns. We systematically studied and documented newborn care knowledge, practices and associated factors among parents and care givers. To assess new born care knowledge, practices and associated factors among parents and care givers attending MRRH. We carried out a quantitative cross section methods study among caregivers of children from birth to six weeks of life attending a regional referral hospital in south western Uganda. Using pretested structured questionnaires, data was collected about care givers' new born care knowledge, practices and the associated factors. Data analysis was done using Stata version 17.0. We interviewed 370 caregivers, majority of whom were the biological mothers at 86%. Mean age was 26 years, 14% were unemployed and 74% had monthly earning below the poverty line. Mothers had a high antenatal care attendance of 97.6% and 96.2% of the deliveries were at a health facility Care givers had variant knowledge of essential newborn care with associated incorrect practices. Majority (84.6%) of the respondents reported obliviousness to putting anything in the babies' eyes at birth, however, breastmilk, water and saliva were reportedly put in the babies' eyes at birth by some caregivers. Hand washing was not practiced at all in 16.2% of the caregivers before handling the newborn. About 7.4% of the new borns received a bath within 24 hours of delivery and 19% reported use of herbs. Caregivers practiced adequate thermal care 87%. Cord care practices were inappropriate in 36.5%. Only 21% of the respondents reported initiation of breast feeding within 1 hour of birth, Prelacteal feeds were given by 37.6% of the care givers, water being the commonest prelacteal feed followed by cow's milk at 40.4 and 18.4% respectively. Majority of the respondents had below average knowledge about danger signs in the newborn where 63% and mean score for knowledge about danger signs was 44%. Caretaker's age and relationship with the newborn were found to have a statistically significant associated to knowledge of danger signs in the newborn baby. There are variable incorrect practices in the essential new born care and low knowledge and awareness of danger signs among caregivers of newborn babies. There is high health center deliveries and antenatal care attendance among the respondents could be used as an opportunity to increase caregiver awareness about the inappropriate practices in essential newborn care and the danger signs in a newborn.

Barriers and Enablers of Postnatal Care by Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) Workers: A Community-Based Qualitative Study From Tribal Gujarat

Background The care provided to the mother and child from delivery to six weeks after is defined as postnatal care. The postnatal period is both a happy and critical phase for the mother and the newborn. However, the provision of high-quality care services is often ignored during this time. The objective of this study was to assess postnatal care services quality by Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) workers and associated factors such as newborn care in rural tribal areas of Gujarat, India. Methodology An ethnographic approach was adopted. Four primary health centers (PHCs) were selected purposively from Sankheda Block, Chhotaudepur, a tribal district in the eastern part of Gujarat. Information on obstacles and facilitators of postnatal care services was collected using in-depth interviews (IDIs) with a purposive sample of 22 ASHAs working in selected PHCs. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results The median age of the ASHA workers was 39 years and ranged from 30 to 51 years (N = 22). Most ASHAs encountered logistical challenges when offering postnatal care services (e.g., they struggled to care for the mother and her babies because they were missing essential equipment, such as a thermometer and a salter-type baby weighing machine, or they had broken equipment). The two main issues facing ASHAs were incentives and timely payments. There were concerns about their safety and physical security during fieldwork. The majority of ASHA workers had good experiences during postnatal home visits, and they received support from other healthcare workers. There were many misconceptions and false assumptions in the community regarding breastfeeding, prelacteal feeding, family planning, and contraception methods. ASHAs wanted to become long-term government employees and believed they were entitled to sufficient training, assistance, recognition, and remuneration for the duties they performed. Conclusions Postnatal mothers receive considerably less attention than antenatal mothers because it mostly depends on ASHA workers and field staff. ASHA workers are doing their best regarding postnatal care. This study revealed some issues ASHAs face, including logistic issues, transportation issues, regular and timely payment issues, and local-level acceptance issues.

Factors influencing Tanzanian mothers' feeding practices for toddlers: A predictive correlational study

Background

Feeding practices are crucial in ensuring toddlers receive an appropriate and varied diet to support their growth and development. In Tanzania, maternal feeding practices for young children are inadequate, and there is limited research on the influencing factors.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the factors influencing Tanzanian mothers' feeding practices for toddlers, utilizing the health promotion model as the theoretical framework.

Methods

A predictive correlational design was employed, with a random sample of 399 mothers who brought their toddlers for health supervision at a tertiary care hospital in the United Republic of Tanzania. Data on personal information, depression, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, perceived self-efficacy, social support, situational influences, and maternal feeding practices were collected using self-administered questionnaires between September 2021 and November 2021. Descriptive statistics, correlations, and multiple regression analysis were employed for the analysis.

Results

All the factors examined in the study accounted for 18.9% of the variance explained in maternal feeding practices. Significantly, only two factors, perceived self-efficacy (β = 0.32, p <0.001) and situational influences (β = 0.24, p <0.001), could predict maternal feeding practices.

Conclusion

Perceived self-efficacy and situational influences emerged as the primary influencing factors on maternal feeding practices for toddlers. Pediatric nurses should address these modifiable factors when developing nursing interventions and strategies to promote a healthy nutritional status in toddlers.

Applying the COM-B Model to Understand the Drivers of Mistreatment During Childbirth: A Qualitative Enquiry Among Maternity Care Staff

INTRODUCTION

Respectful maternity care (RMC) during childbirth is an integral component of quality of care. However, women's experiences of mistreatment are prevalent in many low- and middle-income countries. This is a complex phenomenon that has not been well explored from a behavioral science perspective. We aimed to understand the behavioral drivers of mistreatment during childbirth among maternity care staff at public health facilities in the Sindh province of Pakistan.

METHODS

Applying the COM-B (capability-opportunity-motivation that leads to behavior change) model, we conducted semistructured in-depth interviews among clinical and nonclinical staff in public health facilities in Thatta and Sujawal, Sindh, Pakistan. Data were analyzed using thematic deductive analysis, and findings were synthesized using the COM-B model.

RESULTS

We identified several behavioral drivers of mistreatment during childbirth: (1) institutional guidelines on RMC and training opportunities were absent, resulting in a lack of providers' knowledge and skills; (2) facilities lacked the infrastructure to maintain patient privacy and confidentiality and did not permit males as birth companions; (3) lack of provider performance monitoring system and patient feedback mechanism contributed to providers not feeling appreciated or recognized. Staff bias against patients from lower castes contributed to patient abuse and mistreatment. The perspectives of clinical and nonclinical staff overlapped regarding potential drivers of mistreatment during childbirth.

CONCLUSIONS

Addressing mistreatment during childbirth requires improving the knowledge and capacity of maternity staff on RMC and psychosocial support to enhance their understanding of RMC. At the health facility level, governance and accountability mechanisms in routine supervision and monitoring of staff need to be improved. Patients' feedback should be incorporated for continuous improvement in providing maternity care services that meet patients' preferences and needs.

Correlates of early initiation of breast feeding and prelacteal feeding: a cross-sectional study in Sindh province of Pakistan

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and correlates of early initiation of breast feeding and prelacteal feeding in highly disadvantaged districts in Pakistan.

DESIGN

This cross-sectional study design.

SETTINGS

This study was carried out in twelve districts of the Sindh province of Pakistan.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 4800 mothers with children under 2 years, selected through a multistage random sampling method.

DATA ANALYSIS

Bivariate association, survival analysis (Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazard techniques), multivariate linear regression and the ordinary least square model were used.

RESULTS

The results show that the prevalence of early initiation of breast feeding was 68% and prelacteal feeding was 32%. Adequate treatment, proper guidance at antenatal care visits, postpartum health check, normal birth with skilled birth attendants, institutional birth, skin-to-skin contact at birth and birth size were all associated with early breastfeeding initiation (p<0.001). The odds of early initiation of breast feeding after birth are higher if the respondents received proper guidance (OR 2.05; 95% CI 1.02 to 4.11) or made skin-to-skin contact (OR 10.65; 95% CI 6.82 to 16.65). Bivariate association between the prelacteal feeding and a set of correlates suggests that all variables under study were significantly associated with the outcome variable of interest at a 95% or higher significance level. The factors which significantly reduced the odds of prelacteal feeding were adequate treatment (OR 0.29; 95% CI 0.23 to 0.37) and postpartum health check (OR 0.65; 95% CI 0.53 to 0.80).

CONCLUSION

Sudy concludes that the correlates like adequate treatment of mothers during labour, postpartum health check-up, normal birth with skilled birth attendants, institutional births and skin-to-skin contact between mother and the baby determine the early initiation of breast feeding and prelecteal feeding. Early initiation of breast feeding needs to be encouraged, and communities must be educated against the use of prelacteal feeding.

Is Infant and Young Child-feeding (IYCF) a potential double-duty strategy to prevent the double burden of malnutrition among children at the critical age? Evidence of association from urban slums in Pune, Maharashtra, India

BACKGROUND

This study characterized undernutrition among children (0-24 months) by age groups specified for Infant and Young Child-feeding (IYCF) and determined the association between child malnutrition and IYCF.

METHODS

This cross-sectional survey recruited mother-children dyads (N = 1443). WHO standards were used to assess nutritional status and IYCF indicators. Multivariate analyses were performed to assess the association between IYCF and nutritional indicators.

RESULTS

Stunting, underweight, wasting, overweight, and obesity were prevalent in 33.1%, 26%, 20.2%, 4.6%, and 2.9% of the children, respectively. Age-wise distribution of undernutrition identified severity of stunting and underweight at 10-24 months (median < -1.6 SD; < -1.2 SD; 25th percentile at -2.6 & -2.2 SD respectively) and wasting highest at 0-6 months (25th percentile close to -2SD). Boys manifested higher stunting (lower value -5.2 SD) and were more wasted (lower value -4.7 SD). IYCF prevalence recorded early initiation at 45.2%, exclusive breastfeeding at 23.1%, and prelacteal and bottle-feeding at 37.5 and 22.5% respectively. Child minimum diet diversity (MDD) ≥4 was not achieved by 84%. Minimum meal frequency and minimum acceptable diet were achieved by 75% and 14% respectively. Bottle-feeding increased the odds of wasting [AOR: 1.501 (95% CI: 1.062-2.121)], severe stunting [AOR: 1.595 (95% CI: 1.079-2.358)] and underweight [AOR: 1.519 (95% CI 1.102-2.094)]. Wasting according to BAZ scores was associated with delayed initiation of breastfeeding [AOR: 1.387 (95% CI: 1.018-1.889)] and bottle feeding [AOR: 1.538 (95% CI: 1.087-2.175)]. Delayed introduction of complementary feeding increased the odds of severe stunting [AOR: 2.189 (95% CI: 1.090-4.399)]. Formula feeding increased the odds of underweight [AOR: 1.738 (95% CI: 1.046-2.888)] and obesity [AOR: 4.664 (95% CI: 1.351-16.10)]. Prelacteal feeding increased the odds of severe forms of stunting and underweight by 56% and 79% respectively, and overweight by 96%.

CONCLUSION

Setting and age-specific interventions to improve age-appropriate child-feeding practices are vital to address the double burden of malnutrition in the critical age group.

Disparities in early initiation of breast feeding and prelacteal feeding: A study of low- and middle-income countries

BACKGROUND

Early initiation of breast feeding (EIBF) reduces the risk of neonatal mortality. However, only 45% of newborns are breast-fed within the first hour after birth and prelacteal feeding (PLF) is widely prevalent in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

OBJECTIVE

To assess within- and between-country disparities in EIBF and PLF practices by household wealth and place of birth and to investigate the national-level correlation between these feeding indicators in LMICs.

METHODS

Data from Demographic Health Surveys and Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (2010-2019) in 76 LMICs were used to investigate within-country disparities in EIBF, any PLF, milk-based prelacteal feeding (MPLF), and water-based prelacteal feeding (WPLF) by wealth quintiles and place of childbirth (institutional [private or public sector] or in-home) for children under two years. We examined the between-country Pearson's correlation between EIBF and types of PLF, later adjusted for per capita gross domestic product (GDP).

RESULTS

No clear wealth-related differences were found for EIBF and WPLF; however, any PLF and MPLF were significantly higher in children belonging to the richest 20% of households but are also prevalent among lower income groups. Prevalence of any PLF was higher among institutional births in all LMICs, but especially for MPLF in private sector deliveries in East Asia & the Pacific, Eastern Europe & Central Asia, and Latin America & the Caribbean. WPLF was more common in all African regions. EIBF was inversely correlated with any PLF (r = -0.59, 95% CI -0.72, -0.42), MPLF (r = -0.41, 95% CI -0.58, -0.21) and WPLF (r = -0.34, 95% CI -0.53, -0.13). Adjustment for log-GDP did not affect the magnitude and direction of the results.

CONCLUSION

Clear prorich disparities exist in the prevalence of PLF, especially MPLF. Children born in private sector facilities are more likely to receive MPLF. EIBF is negatively associated with PLF practices in LMICs. The promotion of better early feeding practices is urgent to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal to reduce neonatal mortality to 12 deaths per 1000 live births.

Between and Within-Country Variations in Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices in South Asia

This study aimed to explore variations in Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices between different South Asian Countries (SACs) and within their sociodemographic characteristics including place of residence, mother age, mother education, child sex, and wealth quintiles within the SACs. We extracted 0–23 months age children’s data from the nationally representative survey of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Pakistan. Among all SACs, the early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) practice was 45.4% with the highest prevalence in the Maldives (68.2%) and the lowest prevalence in Pakistan (20.8%). Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) practice was 53.9% with the highest prevalence in Nepal (67%) and the lowest prevalence in Afghanistan (42%). Only 13% of children had a minimum acceptable diet (MAD), with the highest prevalence in the Maldives (52%) and the lowest prevalence in India (11%). We found higher IYCF practices among the mothers with secondary or higher levels of education (EIBF: 47.0% vs. 43.6%; EBF: 55.5% vs. 52.0%; MAD: 15.3% vs. 10.0%), urban mothers (MAD: 15.6% vs. 11.8%), and mothers from the richest households (MAD: 17.6% vs. 8.6%) compared to the mothers with no formal education or below secondary level education, rural mothers and mothers from the poorest households, respectively. Mothers from the poorest households had better EIBF, EBF, and continued breastfeeding at 1-year (CBF) practices compared to the mothers from the richest households (EIBF: 44.2% vs. 40.7%; EBF: 54.8% vs. 53.0%; CBF: 86.3% vs. 77.8%). Poor IYCF practices were most prevalent in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India.

Factors Associated With Pre-Lacteal Feeding Practices Among Mothers Having Children Aged 0-36 Months in Bangladesh: Evidence From Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2017-18

Despite being a known barrier to optimal breast-feeding indicators, the practice of Pre-lacteal Feeding (PLF) remains a key challenge in Bangladesh. This study examines the prevalence and underlying factors associated with PLF, for which data from a weighted sample of 4982 Bangladeshi mothers with children aged 0 to 36 months from the 2017-18 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey was used. Step-by-step multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify the association of significant determinants of PLF practices. Nearly 29% newborns received PLF before breastmilk and timely initiation of breastfeeding did not happen in case of 20.5% babies. The odds of PLF were significantly higher among the inhabitants of Dhaka division compared to other regions. In addition, birth-related factors such as optimal ANC visits (P < .01), home delivery (P < .01) and delivered by cesarean section (P < .01) showed significantly higher odds of introducing PLF to the newborns. Our results demonstrated the need for developing targeted policies and actions to prevent such practices of PLF in order to improve optimal breastfeeding behavior in Bangladesh.

Indigenous neonatal feeding and bathing practices of caregivers in Vhembe District, Limpopo province

Bac kground

Caregivers are offered health information on neonatal care before they are discharged from the healthcare facilities after giving birth. However, they continue to feed and bath neonates in ways that are informed by indigenous traditions. Notably, these ways include the provision of supplementary feeds before 6 months and bathing the neonate as early as possible, which are practices that contradict the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations of neonatal care.

Objectives

This study aimed to explore and describe the indigenous neonatal feeding and bathing practices of caregivers in Vhembe District, Limpopo province.

Setting

This study was conducted in Limpopo province at Vhembe District, Makhado Municipality.

Methodology

A qualitative, explorative and descriptive enquiry was used to conduct 18 semi-structured individual interviews to explore and describe their indigenous neonatal feeding and bathing practices. Purposive and snowball sampling methods were used to select participants. Creswell’s method of data analysis was used to analyse data. Ethical principles were maintained.

Results

Two themes with sub-themes resulted from data analysis presenting indigenous neonatal feeding practices and indigenous neonatal bathing practices.

Conclusion

This study revealed that caregivers use indigenous neonatal feeding and bathing practices across age groups and social standing. Younger mothers receive guidance from older women in their families or community. Midwives should know the indigenous neonatal feeding and bathing practices of the communities they serve to offer relevant culture-sensitive health education.

Contributions

This study contributes to the creation of knowledge about indigenous neonatal care practices amongst mothers and caregivers.

Prevalence and determinants of early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) and prelacteal feeding in Northern Ghana: A cross-sectional survey

BACKGROUND

There is suboptimal early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) with widespread prelacteal feeding in Ghana. However, studies exploring the determinants of EIBF and prelacteal feeding are limited in Ghana. The study was conducted to assess the prevalence and determinants of EIBF and prelacteal feeding in Northern Ghana.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 508 mothers with infants aged 0-24 months in the Sagnarigu Municipality of Northern Ghana. The quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from Ghana's demographic and health survey. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify the independent determinants of EIBF and prelacteal feeding.

RESULTS

The prevalence of EIBF and prelacteal feeding was 72% and 21%, respectively. The independent positive determinants of EIBF were partner support to breastfeed [adjusted Odds ratio (AOR): 1.86, 95% Confidence interval (CI): 1.09-3.17] and exposure to breastfeeding information during pregnancy (AOR = 1.63 (95% CI: 1.01-2.64). Lower odds of EIBF were observed among mothers from extended family (AOR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.41-0.95). Regarding prelacteal feeding, negative determinants were having a normal weight baby (AOR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.27-0.90), exposure to breastfeeding information during pregnancy (AOR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.31-0.92), while experiencing delayed onset of lactation was a risk factor for prelacteal feeding practice (AOR: 2.35, 95% CI: 1.41-3.94).

CONCLUSION

In this study, EIBF was slightly higher than the 2030 global target on EIBF with widespread prelacteal feeding practice. Health programs aimed at improving EIBF should focus on the women partners, nutrition counselling, and support to mothers from the extended family. In the same vein, programs aimed at discouraging prelacteal feeding practice should also target women at risk, such as those with low birthweight babies and women experiencing delayed lactation onset.

Breastfeeding Insufficiencies: Common and Preventable Harm to Neonates

Insufficient milk intake in breastfed neonates is common, frequently missed, and causes preventable hospitalizations for jaundice/hyperbilirubinemia, hypernatremia/dehydration, and hypoglycemia - accounting for most U.S. neonatal readmissions. These and other consequences of neonatal starvation and deprivation may substantially contribute to fully preventable morbidity and mortality in previously healthy neonates worldwide. Previous advanced civilizations recognized this problem of breastfeeding insufficiencies and had an infrastructure to solve it: Wetnursing, shared nursing, and prelacteal feeding traditions used to be well-organized and widespread. Modern societies accidentally destroyed that infrastructure. Then, modern reformers missing a few generations of direct knowledge transmission about safe breastfeeding invented a new, historically anomalous conception of breastfeeding defined in terms of exclusivity. As that new intervention has become increasingly widespread, so too have researchers widely reported associated possible harms of the longer neonatal starvation/deprivation and later infant under-nutrition periods that it creates when breastfeeding is insufficient. Early insufficient nutrition/hydration has possible long-term effects including neurodevelopmental consequences such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, cerebral palsy, cognitive and developmental delay, epilepsy, hearing impairment, kernicterus, language disorder, mood disorders, lower IQ, and specific learning disorder. Current early infant feeding guidelines conflict with the available evidence. Recent reform efforts have tended to focus on using more technology and measurement to harm fewer neonates instead of proposing the indicated paradigm shift in early infant feeding to prevent more harm. The scientific evidence is already sufficient to mandate application of the precautionary principle to feed neonates early, adequate, and often milk before mothers' milk comes in and whenever signs of hunger persist, mitigating possible risks including death or disability. In most contexts, the formula is the best supplementary milk for infants at risk from breastfeeding insufficiencies. National-level reviews of scientific evidence, health policy, and research methods and ethics are needed to initiate the early infant feeding paradigm shift that the data already support. Policy experiments and related legislative initiatives might also contribute to the shift, as insurers might decline or be required by law to decline reimbursing hospitals for costs of this type of preventable hospitalization, which otherwise generates profit.

We Won't Go There: Barriers to Accessing Maternal and Newborn Care in District Thatta, Pakistan

Accessibility and utilization of healthcare plays a significant role in preventing complications during pregnancy, labor, and the early postnatal period. However, multiple barriers can prevent women from accessing services. The aim of this study was to explore the multifaceted barriers that inhibit women from seeking maternal and newborn health care in Thatta, Sindh, Pakistan. This study employed an interpretive research design using a purposive sampling approach. Pre-tested, semi-structured interview guides were used for data collection. The data were collected through eight focus group discussions with men and women, and six in-depth interviews with lady health workers and analyzed through thematic analysis. The study identified individual, sociocultural, and structural-level barriers that inhibit women from seeking maternal and newborn care. Individual barriers included mistrust towards public health facilities and inadequate symptom recognition. The three identified sociocultural barriers were aversion to biomedical interventions, gendered imbalances in decision making, and women’s restricted mobility. The structural barriers included ineffective referral systems and prohibitively expensive transportation services. Increasing the coverage of healthcare service without addressing the multifaceted barriers that influence service utilization will not reduce the burden of maternal and neonatal mortality. As this study reveals, care seeking is influenced by a diverse array of barriers that are individual, sociocultural, and structural in nature. A combination of capacity development, health awareness, and structural interventions can address many if not all of these barriers.

Prelacteal feeding practice and its associated factors among mothers having children less than 2 years of age in East Africa: a multilevel analysis of the recent demographic and health surveys

Background

Prelacteal feeding is a major public health problem that increases the risk of morbidity and mortality in children. It also result delayed breastfeeding initiation and interferes with exclusive breastfeeding. Although numerous studies have been done on prelacteal feeding in individual East African countries, most of them did not consider community-level factors that could affect the likelihood of prelacteal feeding. This study, thus, aimed to assess the pooled prevalence and associated factors of prelacteal feeding practice in East Africa.

Methods

We used pooled data from the 12 east Africa countries Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS). A total weighted sample of 33,423 women was included in the final analysis. We employed multilevel logistic regression analysis to assess factors associated with prelacteal feeding practice. Finally, the Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% Confidence (CI) interval was reported and variables with p value< 0.05, in the multivariable analysis, were declared to be significant predictors of prelacteal feeding practice.

Result

In this study, the pooled prevalence of prelacteal feeding practice was 11.85% (95%CI: 11.50, 12.20) with great variation between countries, ranging from 3.08% (95%CI: 2.35, 3.81) in Malawi to 39.21% (95%CI: 36.36, 42.06) in Comoros. Both individual and community-level factors were associated with prelacteal feeding practice. Of the individual-level factors, home delivery, multiple birth, cesarean delivery, non-exposure to media, delayed initiation of breastfeeding, and being a small-sized baby were associated with higher odds of prelacteal feeding practice. Among the community-level factors, rural residence and higher community-level of media exposure were associated with lower odds of prelacteal feeding practice.

Conclusion

In this study, the pooled prevalence of prelacteal feeding is high. Both individual and community level variables were associated with prelacteal feeding practice. Therefore, individual and community-level interventions that encourage mothers to deliver in the health facility and promoting timely initiation of breastfeeding are needed to reduce prelacteal feeding practices in east Africa. Moreover, media campaigns regarding this harmful traditional practice could be strengthened.

Pooled Prevalence and Determinants of Prelacteal Feeding Practice in Eastern Africa Evidence from Demographic and Health Survey Data: A Multilevel Study

Background

Despite the benefits of breast milk and colostrum for the health and survival of children, early prelacteal feeding is commonly practiced worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pooled prevalence and determinants of prelacteal feeding in Eastern Africa.

Methods

This study was carried out within 11 East African countries from 2010 to 2018, a pooled study of prelacteal feeding was performed. For assessing model fitness and contrast, intra-class correlation coefficient, median odds ratio, proportional change in variance, and deviance were used. In order to identify possible covariates associated with prelacteal feeding in the study area, the multilevel multivariable logistic regression model was adapted. Adjusted Odds Ratio was used with 95% confidence interval to declare major prelacteal factors.

Results

The pooled prevalence of prelacteal feeding in Eastern Africa was 12% (95% CI: 11.42–12.53%), with the highest prevalence of prelacteal feeding in the Comoros (39%) and the lowest in Malawi (3%). Multilevel multivariable logistic regression model; wealth index (AOR = 1.22; 95% CI 1.03–1.34), ANC visit (AOR = 1.42; 95% CI: 1.12–1.79), institutional delivery (AOR = 0.58; 95% CI: 0.58–0.64), small birth size (AOR = 1.14; 95% CI: 1.30–1.26), delivery type (AOR = 2.61; 95% CI: 2.30–2.96), and high community ANC visit (AOR = 0.90; 95% CI: 0.84–0.97) were significantly associated with prelacteal feeding in Eastern Africa.

Conclusion

In East Africa, the magnitude of prelacteal feeding was still high. The possible determinants of prelacteal feeding in Eastern Africa were wealth index, birth interval, delivery mode, place of delivery, ANC visit, and community ANC visit. Structural improvements are required for women with caesarean births to achieve optimal breastfeeding practice in Eastern Africa.

Spatial distribution and determinants of the change in pre-lacteal feeding practice over time in Ethiopia: A spatial and multivariate decomposition analysis

Background

Pre-lacteal feeding persists in low and middle-income countries as deep-rooted nutritional malpractice. It imposes significant negative consequences on neonatal health, including increased risk of illness and mortality. Different studies revealed that pre-lacteal feeding practice is decreased over time. Even though different studies are done on the prevalence and determinants of pre-lacteal feeding practice, up to our knowledge, the spatial distribution and the determinants of the change in pre-lacteal feeding practice over time are not researched.

Objective

To assess the spatial distribution and determinants of the change in pre-lacteal feeding practice over time in Ethiopia.

Methods

We used the Ethiopian demographic and health surveys (EDHSs) data. For this study, a total weighted sample of 14672 (5789 from EDHS 2005, 4510 from EDHS 2011, and 4373 from EDHS 2016) reproductive-age women who gave birth within two years preceding the respective surveys and whoever breastfeed were used. The logit-based multivariate decomposition analysis was used to identify factors that contributed to the decrease in pre-lacteal feeding practice over the last 10 years (from 2005 to 2016). Using the 2016 EDHS data, we also conducted a spatial analysis by using ArcGIS version 10.3 and SaTScan version 9.6 software to explore the spatial distribution and hotspot clusters of pre-lacteal feeding practice.

Result

Pre-lacteal feeding practice was decreased from 29% [95% Confidence interval (CI): 27.63–29.96%] in 2005 to 8% [95% CI: 7.72–8.83%] in 2016 with annual rate of reduction of 7.2%. The overall decomposition analysis showed that about 20.31% of the overall decrease in pre-lacteal feeding practice over the last 10 years was attributable to the difference in composition of women (endowment) across the surveys, while, the remaining 79.39% of the overall decrease was explained by the difference in the effect of characteristics (coefficient) across the surveys. In the endowment component, the difference in composition of residence, perception of distance from the health facility, maternal educational level, wealth status, occupation, ANC visit, place of delivery, the timing of breastfeeding initiation, and wanted last-child/pregnancy were found to be significant contributing factors for the decrease in pre-lacteal feeding practice. After controlling for the role of compositional changes, the difference in the effect of distance from the health facility, wealth status, occupation, antenatal care (ANC) visit, and wanted last-child/pregnancy across the surveys were significantly contributed to the observed decrease in pre-lacteal feeding practice. Regarding the spatial distribution, pre-lacteal feeding practice was non-random in Ethiopia in which the primary and secondary clusters’ of pre-lacteal feeding identified in Somalia and the Afar region respectively.

Conclusion

Pre-lacteal feeding practice has shown a significant decline over the 10-year period. Program interventions considering women with poor maternal health service utilization such as ANC visits, women with poor socioeconomic status, women with an unintended pregnancy, and women from remote areas especially at border areas such as Somali and Afar could decrease pre-lacteal feeding practice in Ethiopia.