Husband and Family Support as Determinants of Successful Early Initiation of Breastfeeding and Exclusive Breastfeeding in a Rural Area

Abstract

A preliminary study conducted in the working area of Rambipuji Primary Health Center revealed low coverage of early initiation of breastfeeding (45%) and exclusive breastfeeding (35%), with good spousal and family support reported by only 40% and 45% of respondents, respectively. This study aimed to analyze the influence of husband and family support on early initiation of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding practices among newborns. An observational analytic cross-sectional design was employed. The target population comprised all mothers with infants aged 6-12 months in the Rambipuji area (N=267). A sample of 87 participants was selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires that had been validated (Cronbach's alpha 0.87-0.89) and analyzed using multiple logistic regression. The results revealed that 64.4% of mothers practiced early initiation of breastfeeding, while 56.3% provided exclusive breastfeeding. Good husband support (OR=4.21; 95% CI=1.78-9.96; p=0.001) and good family support (OR=3.56; 95% CI=1.54-8.23; p=0.003) were significantly associated with early initiation of breastfeeding. Similar patterns were observed for exclusive breastfeeding. Family-based interventions are urgently needed in breastfeeding promotion programs at primary health centers.