Exploring Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding among Mothers in Jiangsu, China.

OBJECTIVES

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for infants under 6 months, but EBF practices in China face significant challenges. This study aimed to evaluate EBF duration and its determinants among Chinese mothers in Jiangsu Province.

METHODS

This prospective study recruited 374 mothers from postnatal wards of hospitals. On the day of discharge, a face-to-face survey was conducted, utilizing a demographic record form, the Breastfeeding (BF) Knowledge Questionnaire, the BF Attrition Prediction Tool, the Perception of Insufficient Milk (PIM) Questionnaire, and the Infant Feeding Intention Scale. After discharge, 3 follow-up calls were conducted with an EBF record form. AMOS 23.0 software were employed to perform structural equation modelling.

RESULTS

Only 12.30% of the participants sustained EBF until 6 months postpartum. BF intention, maternity leave, and perceived control had direct positive effects on EBF. Subjective norm, perceived control and PIM had indirect positive effects on EBF through BF intention. BF knowledge indirectly influenced EBF through BF attitude, subjective norm, perceived control, and PIM, all in positive directions. Additionally, BF attitude had an indirect positive effect on EBF through subjective norm.

CONCLUSIONS

Predictors of EBF for the first 6 months were successfully identified in this study, highlighting the importance of a multi-faceted approach. To support EBF, nurses, employers, and governments must collaborate. Providing lactation facilities, time off for milk expression, and comprehensive maternity leave, along with targeted nursing interventions, can extend EBF durations and improve maternal and infant health.