Prevalence and factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding children from 0 to 6 months in the city of Ouidah in Bénin in 2009

Abstract

Breast milk is the natural food and is ideal for infants during the first months of life The traditional practice of infant persists in people's behavior poses a real problem for healthy babies at home lactating women. The objective of our research was to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding in the city of Ouidah in Benin in 2009. It was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study on 414 mothers of children aged 0 to 6 months. Random Sampling by four degrees was used for the selection of mothers and purposive for medical staff. Techniques of data collection were used to interview mothers of children aged zero to six months, operating documentary and interview with staff of public health maternities. Data were analyzed using EPI INFO 3.51 X ² tests, Pearson OR. At the end of the survey: the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding was estimated at 36.5%, which is low compared to the national rate (43%). Factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding were the educational level of the mother (p =0.021) and time to early breastfeeding (p = 0.005). A program of education for girls and training of health personnel are needed to improve the rate of exclusive breastfeeding.