Determination of the frequency and predictors of prelacteal feeding practices of mothers in Eastern Turkey

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BACKGROUND: Prelacteal feeding, which deprives newborns of colostrum, remains a major public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of prelacteal feeding among mothers in eastern Turkey. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and August 2023, including 335 mothers with infants aged 0-24 months. Participants were recruited from volunteer mothers who met the inclusion criteria and attended the paediatrics and gynaecology clinics of a university hospital during the data collection period. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews conducted by the researchers using the Prelacteal Feeding Practices and Associated Factors Questionnaire (PFP-AFQ). RESULTS: Prevalence of prelacteal feeding was 17.9%. Common prelacteal substances administered include formula (51.7%), sugar water (28.3%), cow's milk (3.3%), and plain water (16.7%). Maternal education level, place of residence, employment status, family type, household income level, receipt of regular antenatal care, birth weight, breastfeeding education status, time of first breastfeeding after birth, knowledge regarding the importance and harms of colostrum, and the practice of administering colostrum immediately after birth were found to be significantly associated with prelacteal feeding (p<0.05). Furthermore, according to the multiple logistic regression analysis, income level, breastfeeding education, time of first breastfeeding after birth, knowledge regarding the importance and harms of colostrum, and the practice of administering colostrum immediately after birth were identified as significant predictors of prelacteal feeding (p<.05). CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, prelacteal feeding remains a preventable but persistent practice influenced by maternal education, antenatal care, breastfeeding knowledge, and early initiation of breastfeeding. Integrating targeted educational interventions into prenatal and postnatal care may help reduce the prevalence of prelacteal feeding and improve breastfeeding outcomes.