Abstract:
Background: The act of a mother feeding her infant breast milk is known as breastfeeding.
Inappropriate breastfeeding techniques are a common problem among primipara mothers
around the world. A study indicates that primiparas were more likely to practice ineffective
breast feeding techniques than multipara mothers. Effective breastfeeding provides various
benefits for a baby's growth and development and maternal health.
Objective: The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of breastfeeding techniques and
associated factors among primipara breastfeeding mothers in public health facilities in Arba
Minch town, Ethiopia, 2022.
Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted on systematically
selected 407 primipara mothers from October 1, 2022, to December 31, 2022. The data
were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and an observational
checklist using Kootoolbox. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the study
participants' characters. Bivariable and Multivariable analyses were carried out to identify
factors associated with breastfeeding techniques using binary logistic regression. P-values of
0.05 with a 95% confidence interval were declared statistically significant.
Results: Effective breastfeeding techniques were used by 46.9% of mothers (95%, CI:
41.8%, 52.3%). Antenatal counseling on breastfeeding technique (AOR): 1.83; 95% CI: 1.15,
2.89); vaginal delivery (AOR: 1.95; 95% CI: 1.13, 3.37); absence of breast problems (AOR:
2.17; 95% CI: 1.08, 4.36); skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth (AOR: 2.03; 95% CI:
1.11, 3.70); and breastfeeding assistance (AOR: 1.88; 95% CI: 1.13, 3.12) were factors
associated with effective breastfeeding techniques.Conclusion: The practice of effective breastfeeding techniques among primipara mothers is
low in the study area. Thus, strengthening antenatal counseling, encouraging breastfeeding
support, and preventing breast problems should get special attention to improve the
effectiveness of breastfeeding technique
