Knowledge, attitudes and practices of Iraqi mothers and family child-caring women regarding breastfeeding

Abstract

We assessed breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes and practices of 3413 Iraqi mothers and adult female relatives in the same household and their association with sociodemographic characteristics. The majority of the women [‎73.1%]‎ initiated breastfeeding early after delivery, 92.9% believed colostrum was good for their baby and 64.6% breastfed on demand. However, knowledge was lacking about full exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months postpartum, signs of good positioning and latch-on and the correct time to introduce supplements. Nearly 35% believed that breast milk was not enough for their infants. Rural and less educated women knew less about breastfeeding concepts than more educated urban women but more continued breastfeeding longer and introduced supplements later