Factors of early breastfeeding initiation among Filipino women: A population-based cross-sectional study

Early breastfeeding initiation (EBI) within the first hour after birth has the potential to reduce neonatal mortality. However, the prevalence of EBI still falls short of the 70 % target set by the WHO for 2030. Limited research has been conducted on this issue. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the prevalence and factors of EBI in the Philippines.

This study is a secondary analysis of the data from the Philippine National Demographic and Health Survey (PNDHS) in 2017. Women survey participants aged 15 to 49 (n = 3750) who had given birth within the two years prior to the survey were included in this study. A p-value < 0.05 was used to define statistical significance when identifying the factors associated with EBI using hierarchical logistic regression analysis.

Women who were more likely to practice EBI were those from the Cordillera Administrative Region, who read newspaper/magazines, and delivered infants at 2 or later birth order. On the contrary, women from Central Luzon, CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon provinces), Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, and the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao; who listen to the radio at least once a week; and give birth through cesarean section were less likely to practice EBI.

Channeling breastfeeding messages through printed mass media and provision of specialized breastfeeding support to mothers with cesarean section delivery may help in reducing the barriers to early breastfeeding initiation. Targeted interventions and strategies that promote breastfeeding practices, particularly among primigravida women and in regions with lower rates of EBI contribute to increased rate of optimal breastfeeding.