Analysis of factors responsible for changing trends in exclusive breastfeeding; a study from Al-Qassim region

Objective: This study aimed to determine the extent of breastfeeding practices and understand the factors that influence these practices among mothers in the Qassim region, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among mothers living in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed among mothers using social media platforms. The questionnaire includes socio-demographic data (e.g., age, education, and so on), questionnaires about pregnancy-related characteristics, trends of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), and reasons for EBF cessation. Results: Among the 393 recruited mothers, 87 (22.1%) were between 42 and 49 years. The prevalence of breastfeeding 1 hour after baby birth, at 4-6 weeks, at more than 6 weeks-6 months, and up to 2 years was 161 (41%), 309 (78.6%), 212 (53.9%), and 85 (21.6%), respectively. Multivariate regression analysis showed that younger age and EBF within 6 months were the significant independent predictors of breastfeeding for up to 2 years. Conclusion: There was a decreasing trend of EBF among mothers in the Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia. Factors associated with continuing EBF for up to 2 years include younger age and EBF within 6 months. Implementing strategies to mitigate the barriers to EBF is necessary, warranting better health outcomes for mothers and their infants.