Prevalence of Ineffective Breastfeeding Techniques and Associated Factors Among Breastfeeding Mothers in South Gondar Hospitals, Ethiopia: A Cross- Sectional Study

Abstract Background Ineffective breastfeeding techniques contribute substantially to early discontinuation of exclusive breastfeeding and to maternal breast complications. Despite their public health importance, evidence on the magnitude and determinants of ineffective breastfeeding practices in Ethiopia—particularly in the South Gondar Zone—remains limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ineffective breastfeeding techniques and to identify associated factors among lactating mothers attending public hospitals in the South Gondar Zone, Ethiopia. Method An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among lactating mothers. A total of 423 participants were selected using systematic random sampling. Data were collected through direct observation using a structured checklist and via interviewer-administered questionnaires. Ineffective breastfeeding technique was defined and assessed based on the standard components of positioning, attachment, and suckling. Data were entered into EpiData and analyzed using SPSS. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of ineffective breastfeeding techniques. Result The prevalence of ineffective breastfeeding techniques was 54.3% (95% CI: 49.9%–59.8%). Ineffective breastfeeding was significantly associated with having poor knowledge of breastfeeding practices(AOR = 1.8; 95% CI; 1.52–4.6), no formal education (AOR = 1.74; 95% CI: 1.15–3.00), primiparity (AOR = 2.16; 95% CI: 1.15–3.73), bottle-feeding practice (AOR = 1.95; 95% CI: 1.14–3.33), lack of antenatal care follow-up (AOR = 3.09; 95% CI: 1.56–6.09), absence of prior information on breastfeeding techniques (AOR = 1.94; 95% CI: 1.20–3.14), and a history of breast-related problems (AOR = 2.22; 95% CI: 1.15–4.65). Conclusion Ineffective breastfeeding technique was found to be highly prevalent, and more than half of the mothers demonstrated inadequate knowledge of proper breastfeeding practices. Interventions aimed at reducing this burden should prioritize enhancing women’s education, promote antenatal care attendance, and provide mothers with comprehensive information, counselling, and education to improve both technique and knowledge.