DefinePK

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and associated factors influencing its practice among postnatal mothers at Central Park Teaching Hospital, Lahore. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Conducted in the Postnatal Wards of Central Park Teaching Hospital, Lahore. Period: September 2023 to February 2023. Methods: Enrolled 150 mothers using a non-probability consecutive sampling technique. Structured face-to-face interviews using a pretested questionnaire collected socio-demographic, obstetric, and breastfeeding data. EBF was defined per WHO guidelines. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed. Results: The prevalence of EBF was 50.7%. No significant associations were observed between EBF and maternal age (p = 0.511), parity (p = 0.516), infant gender (p = 0.982), mode of delivery (p = 0.645), education level (p = 0.167), postnatal counseling (p = 0.071), breastfeeding initiation (p = 0.073), or maternal employment (p = 0.979). Trends suggested higher EBF rates among educated mothers, those receiving postnatal counseling, and those delaying breastfeeding initiations though statistical significance was not reached. Conclusion: Enhanced breastfeeding education and hospital-based interventions are needed. Although no significant predictors were identified, trends highlight potential influencing factors requiring further investigation. Future research should explore longitudinal and qualitative assessments to better understand maternal perceptions and barriers to EBF in Pakistan.