Barriers and Enablers to Breastfeeding Among Mothers in General Santos City: A Cross-sectional Study

Background. Breastfeeding is the natural process of providing infants with the essential nutrients needed for average growth and development. Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is defined as “infants who were only breastfed since birth; no formula, no water, or liquid [2]. Breastfeeding improves the survival, health, and development of all children. It saves women’s lives and contributes to human capital development. Objective. This study aimed to determine the barriers and enablers to breastfeeding among mothers whose infants’ received vaccination in the rural health units of General Santos City regardless of their residence. Study Design: A Cross sectional study was conducted was conducted. Methodology: This study involved 475 mothers between 15-49 years old, with infants who will receive immunization in the rural health units of General Santos City regardless of their residence. Results: Statistical analysis using chi square test demonstrated that correlation to demographic profile such as age (χ2= 24.12, p-value of 0.0000), marital status (χ2=6.09, p=0.0136) and parity were significantly associated with the practice of breastfeeding (χ2=11.54, p = 0.0007). Barriers identified were 1) not enough breastmilk production, 2) concern that baby will not receive adequate nutrition, 3) seeing breastfeeding as stressful activity, 4) Concern that certain food mother eat will make the baby sick and 5) return to work. Enablers identified were 1) support from family, 2) Informed by health workers about the benefits of breastfeeding, 3) knows who to contact for help, 4) relieve stress, 5) minimal household chores. Discussion: This study emphasizes the association of the identified barriers and enablers of breastfeeding that may be target points for improvement of policy/interventions. Conclusion: Barriers and enablers towards breastfeeding have statistically significant difference in the practice of breastfeeding hence may be target points for improvement of interventions aiming to increase practice of breastfeeding among mothers in General Santos City.