Hospital-Based Perinatal Practices and Duration of Exclusive Breastfeeding in Mexican Mothers

Background/Objectives: The initiation and maintenance of breastfeeding depend on internal and external factors that can either support or hinder its success. This study aimed to examine the association between hospital-based perinatal practices and the duration of exclusive breastfeeding among Mexican mothers of infants under one year of age. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in Guadalajara, Mexico, using a structured questionnaire developed in Google Forms and distributed via social media managed by healthcare professionals. Elegible participants were mothers of infants aged 6 to 12 months. Data were collected between March and November 2022 and included information on infant feeding at six months, sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics, breastfeeding education, hospital-based practices, and professional support during birth. A sample size of 323 participants was estimated on a 95% confidence level, 30% expected prevalence, and 5% margin of error. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, odds ratios, Mann-Whitney U tests, and multivariate analyses. Results: A total of 326 mothers participated. Exclusive breastfeeding lasted less than six months for 63.5% of infants, while 36.5% were exclusively breastfed from birth to six months. Bottle use in the hospital, provision of human milk substitutes during the hospital stay, and at discharge were significantly associated with shorter exclusive breastfeeding duration (p < 0.001). Predictors of not achieving six months of exclusive breastfeeding included primiparity, delayed initiation beyond the first postpartum hour, and lack of continuous rooming-in. Conclusions: Hospital-based practices significantly influence exclusive breastfeeding duration. Strengthening maternity care policies may improve adherence to recommended feeding practices.