Mothers' knowledge and intentions of breastfeeding in Marrakech, Morocco

Abstract

Exclusive breastfeeding immediately after birth and during the first 6 months of life is the best source of nutrition for an infant. Its well-documented benefits are countless. Several studies highlight the relation between women's knowledge of breastfeeding, their attitudes, and their subsequent behavior. In this perspective, we conducted a study to examine the intentions and prenatal knowledge of mothers on breastfeeding. In a survey conducted from September 2013 to June 2015, 768 women were interviewed in different maternity units in Marrakech and its surrounding rural area. The mothers' mean age was 27.6 years, 30.1% of them were illiterate, and 48.2% were from rural areas. A total of 95.3% of the mothers received information concerning breastfeeding during pregnancy. The immediate circle of family and friends was the main source of information (52.8%), while healthcare professionals accounted for only 14%. Of the women surveyed, 57.5% had the intention during pregnancy to breastfeed their babies, and 81% wished to breastfeed for more than 12 months. The level of knowledge was related to the mother's age, education level, and parity. It should be noted that as their age increases women tend to choose breastfeeding exclusively for long periods. The level of knowledge and intentions of mothers regarding breastfeeding are associated with the success of this practice; however, the rate of breastfeeding continues to decline both nationally and regionally. Therefore, several measures should be taken to promote breastfeeding.

Keywords: Breastfeeding; Breastfeeding benefits; Breastfeeding duration; Intentions; Knowledge.