Maternal and neonatal factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding upon hospital discharge.

OBJECTIVE

to identify maternal and neonatal factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge from a tertiary care hospital.

METHODS

a cross-sectional study using secondary data from 22,136 records of newborns hospitalized in a neonatal unit (2009-2022). Maternal and neonatal variables and feeding practices at discharge were analyzed. Bayesian logistic regression models were applied.

RESULTS

exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge was 91.55%. Negatively associated factors were cesarean delivery (OR: 0.90), illicit substance use (OR: 0.30), low birth weight (OR: 0.84), and cleft lip and palate (OR: 0.15). Breastfeeding counseling and labor and delivery support promoted exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge.

CONCLUSION

despite the high prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge, barriers persist that must be addressed through promotion strategies, staff training, and support for mothers at risk.