Factors associated with early breastfeeding weaning among a Tunisian population

Abstract

Aim: To identify factors associated with breastfeeding cessation at the first month of life. Methods: We conducted a prospective study involving infants born between March and June 2011 at the Mongi Slim hospital. Results: We had enrolled 315 infants. At birth, 99,3% of infants were breastfed. At the first month of life, 27 mothers had stopped breastfeeding. Factors predisposing to breastfeeding cessation in the first month of life were the lack of support from the father (RR=3,675), and the difficulties encountered during breastfeeding at the maternity (RR=2,613). Conclusion: The main risk factors for early breastfeeding cessation were lack of support from the father and difficulties at initiation.