Factors associated with the practice of exclusive breastfeeding among mothers of children aged 6 to 12 months in Kaolack (Senegal)

Introduction: the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends immediate and exclusive breastfeeding in order to reduce malnutrition and neonatal mortality. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and to identify its associated factors among mothers of children aged 6 to 12 months in Kaolack. Method: we conducted a cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study. The study was conducted from July 08th, 2020 to February 08th, 2021. Multivariate analysis was performed using the logistic regression model. The target population consisted of mothers of children aged 6 to 12 months residing in the city of Kaolack and met during vaccination sessions. Results: a total of 400 women were enrolled in the study. Among them, 51,8% practiced EBF according to the WHO recommendations. The average age of mothers was 27,42 years; 56,3% were housewives and 82,7% have done at least 4 antenatal care (ANC). Logistic regression showed an association between EBF and the following factors: age < 25 years (OR=2,03 CI 95% [1,23-3,36]), receiving advice on EBF during ANCs (OR=2,92 CI 95% [1,70-5,01]), receiving advice on EBF during postnatal care (PNC) (OR=4,33 CI 95% [2,51-7,45]), the permanent presence of mother with her baby (OR=3,97 CI 95% [1,99-7,91]), and a good knowledge of EBF (OR=4,54 CI 95% [1,96-10,51]). Conclusion: these modifiable factors can help improve the practice of EBF in the city of Kaolack.