Breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic and associated factors: a risk to sustainable development

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges to maternal and infant health.
• Breastfeeding is crucial for infant nutrition and development, with global health organizations recommending exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate breastfeeding duration in infants born during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To identify factors associated with early weaning in this population.
• To discuss findings in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal study followed 127 mother-baby dyads from birth to six months.
• Data collected included infant feeding practices, postpartum depression, and mother-infant bonding.
• Statistical analyses included descriptive and inferential methods.

Main Results:

• A high incidence of early weaning was observed, particularly within the first month postpartum.
• Factors associated with early weaning included pacifier use (p=0.019) and breastfeeding difficulties (p=0.015).
• Early introduction of formula was also significantly linked to early weaning (p=0.001).

Conclusions:

• Reduced breastfeeding duration and increased early weaning rates during the pandemic pose a threat to achieving global health targets.
• The findings underscore the need for continued support for breastfeeding mothers, especially during public health crises.
• Addressing barriers to breastfeeding is essential for meeting Sustainable Development Goals related to child health and nutrition.