The effect of an Empowerment-Based Human Centered Educational Program on early weaning

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Maternal and Child Health
• Health Education

Background:

• Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is crucial for infant health and recommended globally.
• Antenatal education interventions have shown potential to prolong breastfeeding duration and increase EBF rates.
• Empowerment-based, human-centered approaches may further enhance breastfeeding outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of an Empowerment-Based Human Centered Educational Program on early infant weaning.
• To compare the effectiveness of different educational delivery methods on exclusive breastfeeding rates.

Main Methods:

• A semi-randomized controlled study involving pregnant women attending antenatal care.
• An interactive training module with role-plays, films, and group practice was developed for the intervention group.
• Participants were randomized into routine follow-up or reminder call subgroups; EBF rates were assessed at six months postpartum.

Main Results:

• The intervention group demonstrated a statistically significant increase in EBF rates at six months (42.9% vs. 22.2%, P = 0.001).
• Infants in the control group began supplementary foods earlier (18.5 weeks vs. 15 weeks, P = 0.03).
• Mothers cited "insufficient milk" as the primary reason for early weaning.

Conclusions:

• The educational module effectively increased exclusive breastfeeding rates.
• Group training combined with postnatal reminders was more effective for EBF than individual training at baby-friendly institutions.