Community-based epidemiological study on breastfeeding and associated factors with respect to postpartum periods in Taiwan.

Aims: To explore the prevalence of breastfeeding in different geographical areas and identify the factors influencing breastfeeding practices during in-hospital stay and at one, four and six months postpartum in Taiwan.

Background: The national data on prevalence for breastfeeding patterns are still unknown.

Design: Community-based epidemiological survey design.

Methods: A total of 12,201 women were sampled from the birth registration and surveyed between June-October 2004. Data were collected through a computer-assisted telephone interview at four different postpartum periods. Logistic regression modelling was applied to determine factors influencing breastfeeding patterns and postpartum time-specific odds ratios.

Results: Rates of breastfeeding practices were 29.4, 33.2, 16.9 and 13.1% for in-hospital stay, the first-, fourth- and sixth-month postpartum respectively. Mother's intention to breastfeed was the most important factor to lengthen breastfeeding practices over time. The effect of an advocate programme in the hospital was significantly associated with breastfeeding only at the time of in-hospital stay. Age, family support and singleton were found to be significantly related to the continuation of breastfeeding at the fourth month postpartum. Employment status was significantly associated with the termination of breastfeeding, particularly at the later postpartum period. Geographical variation in breastfeeding practices within the first month postpartum was identified. In contrast, ethnic variation was more apparent at the later postpartum period.

Conclusions: This large-scale study revealed a significantly decreasing trend after one month postpartum of breastfeeding rate in each geographical area of Taiwan. Factors associated with women's decision and continuation on breastfeeding patterns tended to be dependent on the time-specific postpartum period and varied between geographical areas.

Relevance To Clinical Practice: If breastfeeding rates are to increase, more attention should be paid to establish early breastfeeding and counter the negative influences of factors within the social environment.