BREASTFEEDING TECHNIQUES AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG PRIMIPARA MOTHERS WHO DELIVERED IN PUBLIC HEALTH FACILITIES, ARBA MINCH, ETHIOPIA

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