Effects of Early Initiation of Breastfeeding on Exclusive Breastfeeding Practices of Mothers in Rural Haiti.
INTRODUCTION
Rates and relationships of early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) and exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) of mothers in rural Haiti were examined. Prelacteal and complementary feedings were identified.


METHODS
With a cross-sectional descriptive design, survey data from mothers (N = 195) were collected at three intervals after birth. Data were analyzed for indicators of EIBF, EBF, and complementary feedings.


RESULTS
Overall, 148 (75.9%) mothers reported EIBF, and 75 (38.5%) reported EBF. EIBF was associated with EBF, with an adjusted relative risk 1.35 (95% confidence interval = [0.84, 2.18]). Several nutritive and nonnutritive substances interrupted EBF during the first 6 months of life.


DISCUSSION
Haiti has an under-five mortality rate of 67.0/1,000 live births, exceeding the mean of 46.5/1,000 live births for developing regions. Both EIBF and EBF are associated with decreased neonatal and early infant mortality. Country-specific data are needed to inform and develop breastfeeding initiatives and community-level campaigns to improve the prevalence of EIBF and EBF in Haiti.
['Walsh|Susan M|SM|', 'Cordes|Leslie|L|', 'McCreary|Linda|L|', 'Norr|Kathleen F|KF|']
D000328:Adult D001942:Breast Feeding D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies D003469:Culture D005260:Female D006205:Haiti D006801:Humans D007223:Infant D007231:Infant, Newborn D008297:Male D009035:Mothers D012424:Rural Population D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
exclusive breastfeeding Haiti Early initiation breastfeeding cultural practices prelacteal feeds