Breastfeeding practices and attitudes among women in West Sumatra, Indonesia

Background

Significant variations in breastfeeding initiation and continuation exist in different global communities. Understanding women's attitude and experiences about breastfeeding within different communities is important to inform optimum infant feeding practices.

Aim

To explore breastfeeding practices and gain insights into women's practices, knowledge and beliefs concerning infant feeding in West Sumatra, Indonesia.

Methods

A mixed methods study was undertaken. Breastfeeding data were collected from mothers at birth, 6 weeks, 6 and 9 months of infant's age within a feasibility study of antenatal nutritional supplementation in West Sumatra (n = 158). Additionally, a convenience sample of mothers (n = 19) undertook qualitative semi-structured interviews. Interviews were analysed thematically.

Results

While only 84.2% of infants were exclusively breastfed within the 24 hours prior to hospital discharge, 93.7% of infants at 6 weeks and 64.7% at 6 months were exclusively breastfed. At 9 months 92.9% of infants continued to breastfeed. Qualitative interviews generated three overarching themes: (1) ‘Mothers’ attitude’. Women viewed breastfeeding as normal and natural and strongly valued the health benefits of exclusive breastfeeding. (2) ‘Cultural perspectives’ showed breastfeeding was the default choice within the women's communities. (3) ‘Family and social support’ found women received good family support and encouragement to breastfeed.

Conclusion

The exclusive breastfeeding rate of 64.7% and any breastfeeding rate of 96.0% at 6 months in West Sumatra is noteworthy. Cultural values, family and social support along with a positive attitude reinforced by information and knowledge regarding breastfeeding appeared to catalyse high rates of breastfeeding. Further international comparative studies to provide insights into the underpinning social and belief constructs that may contribute to these positive health behaviours (or lack of it in other communities) is worthy of further investigation.

What is it about?

The study explored breastfeeding practices and women's knowledge and beliefs about infant feeding in West Sumatra, Indonesia, utilizing a mixed methods approach. Data were collected from 158 mothers at various intervals: birth, 6 weeks, 6 months, and 9 months, as part of a feasibility study on antenatal nutritional supplementation. Additionally, qualitative data were obtained from semi-structured interviews with 19 mothers, analyzed thematically. The findings showed that 84.2% of infants were exclusively breastfed before hospital discharge, increasing to 93.7% at 6 weeks, but dropping to 64.7% at 6 months. At 9 months , with 92.9% still breastfeeding at 9 months of infants continued to receive some breastmilk each day. The qualitative analysis identified three themes: mothers' positive attitudes towards breastfeeding, cultural norms favoring breastfeeding, and strong family and social support. High breastfeeding rates in West Sumatra were linked to cultural values, social support, and informed positive attitudes towards breastfeeding.

Why is it important?

This study is important as it highlights significant variations in breastfeeding practices across different global communities, focusing on West Sumatra, Indonesia. Understanding these practices and the underlying cultural, social, and educational factors is essential for promoting optimal infant feeding practices. The research sheds light on how cultural values and family support, combined with positive attitudes and knowledge about breastfeeding, can lead to high rates of breastfeeding. These insights are crucial for informing public health strategies and interventions aimed at improving infant nutrition and reducing child mortality, particularly in regions where breastfeeding rates are suboptimal.

Key Takeaways:

1. Cultural Influence: The study reveals that breastfeeding is deeply ingrained as the default choice within the communities of West Sumatra, supported by strong cultural values that favor exclusive breastfeeding.

2. Family and Social Support: The research identifies that women in West Sumatra receive substantial family and social support, which plays a critical role in encouraging and sustaining breastfeeding practices.

3. Breastfeeding Rates: The study reports a noteworthy exclusive breastfeeding rate of 64.7% and any breastfeeding rate of 96.0% at 6 months, driven by positive attitudes and comprehensive knowledge about the health benefits of breastfeeding.