Driving Womens Breastfeeding and the Introduction of Complementary Feeding in the Region of Casablanca (Morocco)

Abstract

Background: Dietary diversification is a sensitive period in the construction of the childs autonomy. Broadening the childs food repertoire is based on complex forms of learning. This research project aimed at exploring mothers perceptions with reference to the introduction of appropriate and timely complementary feeding.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study with prospective data collection, based on semi-structured individual interviews, conducted from April 1 to December 30, 2015. The study included 574 mothers with children aged 0 - 24 months, who attended 12 health centers within the prefecture of Ain Chock in Casablanca, Morocco.

Results: Of all the included mothers, 84.6% with children under 6 months of age reported receiving little or no explanation about managing complementary feeding and 93.0% did not receive breastfeeding counseling services from health professionals. For mothers whose children were aged 6 - 24 months, 74.6% of them reported not having been enlightened on the subject of dietary diversification.

Conclusion: Counseling is an enabling process with a strong educational component built within it. The community-based interventions for improving breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices, through appropriate awareness-raising campaigns, training and education programmes responding to the information needs of parents and caregivers, need to be further reinforced.




J Clin Gynecol Obstet. 2016;5(4):121-128
doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jcgo420e