Factors contributing to non-exclusive breastfeeding in primigravid mothers

<p><strong>Aims</strong> </p> <p>We aimed to examine the factors contributing to non-exclusive breastfeeding in primigravid mothers in a large Irish tertiary maternity hospital. </p> <p><strong>Methods</strong> </p> <p>This was a retrospective cohort study carried out at the Rotunda Hospital, Dublin, Ireland. Maternal demographics, antenatal, perinatal, delivery-related information and neonatal outcomes were collected and analysed. </p> <p><strong>Results </strong></p> <p>569 eligible mothers were delivered during the study period. Out of the 416 mothers intending to breastfeed, 278 (67%) mothers were exclusively breastfeeding at discharge. On univariate analysis, a higher body mass index, unemployment, an Asian background, gestational diabetes, antenatal steroids, low birth weight and hypernatremia were all associated with non-exclusive breastfeeding (all p<0.05). On logistic regression, only gestational diabetes, a birthweight < 2500 grams and hypernatremia remained significantly associated with non-exclusive breastfeeding on discharge. </p> <p><strong>Conclusion</strong> </p> <p>Addressing barriers to breast feeding through antenatal and early neonatal education, counselling and support, by qualified healthcare personnel may increase the number of infants exclusively breastfeeding on discharge.  </p>