Prevalence and Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding Among Mothers in Giza, Egypt: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Authors

1 Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University.

2 Public Health and Community Medicine Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University.

3 Public Health and Community Medicine Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University

4 Public Health and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University.

10.21608/bnni.2025.467136

Abstract

Open access
Corresponding author
Sara Ahmed Heikal
Mobile: 01005222145
Email: dr_s.heikal@kasralainy.edu.eg
Received: 15 October 2025
Accepted:12 November 2025
Published: 24 November 2025
Citation:
Afify NA; Bayoumi YM; Salem MR; El-Sebaie EH; and Heikal SA (2025): Prevalence and Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding Among Mothers in Giza, Egypt: A Cross-Sectional Study. BNNI, (2) 1-22
doi
Breastfeeding (BF) is vital for child health, yet in Egypt, exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rates drop sharply after birth. Our study assessed the prevalence of EBF among six-month-old infants at Talbia Family Health Center and examined socioeconomic and behavioral determinants, maternal perceptions, and practices. An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at the Talbia Family Health Center over a period of 9 months. A convenience sample of 339 mothers attending the six-month vaccination clinic was interviewed using a structured questionnaire to estimate the prevalence of EBF and to assess the socio-demographic data, economic status, biomedical factors, breastfeeding practices, and perceptions regarding EBF. The prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) at six months was 34%, with a mean duration of 4.35 ± 1.6 months. The mean maternal age was 28.7 ± 4.4 years; mothers aged 30–34 years were significantly less likely to practice EBF (p = 0.03). Only 34% initiated breastfeeding within the first hour, while prelacteal feeding was common. Most mothers practiced on-demand feeding (80%), 95% attended ANC, and pregnancy complications significantly affected EBF (p=0.04). Reported barriers included maternal medical conditions (32%), perceived insufficient milk (31%), and return to work (19%). Although 78% knew the definition of EBF, this did not ensure sustained practice. Most mothers expressed willingness to practice EBF in future pregnancies and emphasized the need for greater community support. Conclusion: Suboptimal EBF is influenced by multiple interrelated factors. Enhancing physician support, addressing maternal health concerns, and fostering a supportive community environment are essential to improving exclusive breastfeeding practices.

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