Poor Breastfeeding as a Probable Cause of Childhood Malnutrition: Exploring Mothersʹ and Caregiversʹ Views on Breastfeeding via a Qualitative Study in Damavand, Iran

Childhood malnutrition still persists in some parts of Iran. Poor breast feeding is proposed as a probable risk factor for malnutrition. In the present study views, experiences and practices of mothers and caregivers about exclusive breast feeding was explored by a qualitative study in Damavand, Iran, a country with a relatively high prevalence of pediatric malnutrition. Urban and rural mothers who had under-2-year babies attended 11 FGDs. In addition, six FGDs were arranged for caregivers in urban and rural areas. All FGD notes were analyzed and emerging themes were derived and reported. The findings indicated that although mothers were aware of breastfeeding benefits and regarded it as their responsibility, in few cases, neonates were fed by items other than breast milk. Exclusive breast feeding was not followed precisely. Pregnancy of mothers, lack of knowledge, misinformation and physician instruction were among the reasons why mother may stop breast- feeding. Mothers' and caregivers were aware of the importance of breast feeding in sick children. Mothers’ knowledge of exclusive breast feeding were satisfactory but their practice was not based on recommendations. As physicians play a role in this matter, the need for specific educational modules for them and other health staff is recommended. Meanwhile, parental education and everyone involved in childcare is a priority so that the problem can be overcome.