ArticleBMC public health2025
Psychosocial and context factors associated with breastfeeding and complementary feeding changes in Belize: a mixed methods approach.
Article in BMC public health, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 1 paper.
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Abstract
backgroundUNICEF advocates for children's rights by ensuring their basic needs are met and their potential maximized. Reducing child mortality and improving health are central to this mission, particularly through breastfeeding and complementary feeding. This study aims to analyse these practices in Belize using data from three past Multi Indicator Cluster Studies (MICS) and conducted a research study that explores barriers and factors influencing breastfeeding, including the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, with a focus on maternal mental health. The study examines breastfeeding within the first hour after birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months (EBF), and continued breastfeeding for up to two years and beyond.
methodsA mixed-methods design was used, combining quantitative MICS data (2006, 2011, 2015-16), desk reviews, and qualitative data collected in Belize in August-September 2022, to assess the context and psychosocial factors, including maternal mental health, that influence breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices among caregivers. Data collection involved 45 face-to-face interviews mainly with female caretakers of children under two, Key Informant Interviews, and Focus Group Discussions with caretakers and healthcare staff. Maternal mental health was assessed using the Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20).
resultsThe findings indicate that two out of three children were not exclusively breastfed for the first six months. Among the 45 interviewed caretakers, 93% reported overall breastfeeding (exclusive, non-exclusive, or complementary), 82% practiced EBF during the first six months, and 78% breastfed within one hour after birth. While general breastfeeding was common, EBF showed increasing trends, and early initiation was less frequent. Half of the woman interviewed were at risk of common mental health disorders. There was no significant direct association between mental health and breastfeeding. Correlation analysis showed that mothers with poorer mental health had more children, less education, lower socioeconomic status, and greater awareness of breastfeeding barriers.
conclusionsWhile breastfeeding rates in Belize are improving, psychosocial vulnerabilities persist. Indirect links between maternal mental health and structural disadvantage, as well as the identified barriers to breastfeeding highlight the need for integrated, equity-focused public health interventions to enhance breastfeeding outcomes and address broader child nutrition challenges.
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