Knowledge, attitudes and practices on exclusive breastfeeding: Perspectives in pregnant and postpartum mothers

Abstract

Introduction: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is essential for child development, but its prevalence in Ecuador is suboptimal, especially in urban areas. EBF offers multidimensional benefits, but its establishment is challenging due to sociocultural factors. Supporting mothers to promote EBF is crucial. Objective: To assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding EBF in a population of pregnant and postpartum mothers. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 105 women (pregnant and postpartum) in an urban health center in Riobamba, Ecuador. A structured questionnaire was administered in four sections: sociodemographic, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding breastfeeding. Scores were categorized as high, medium, and low using percentiles. Parametric ANOVA statistical analyses were performed to identify associations. Results: The sample of 105 women, predominantly mixed-race (86,67%) and with secondary education (62,86%), showed that 66,7% had high levels of knowledge and favorable attitudes toward breastfeeding, but 19% had low levels in both areas. Practices ranged from adequate (46,7%) to regular (44,8%), with 8,6% being inadequate. Educational level significantly influenced breastfeeding knowledge (p=0,018), with higher scores in women with higher versus primary education. There were no associations between occupation/practices or ethnicity/attitudes (p>0,05). Conclusions: Educational level significantly influences breastfeeding knowledge, requiring interventions in populations with low educational attainment. Nineteen percent of women showed low knowledge and attitudes, requiring specific support. No associations were found between occupation and practices, or ethnicity and attitudes, suggesting analyzing other factors in the social environment.