Feasibility and Acceptability of a Breastfeeding Support Intervention Among Mothers of Infants Under Six Months Old Discharged From Malnutrition Treatment in Kilifi County.

Malnourished infants under 6 months experience poor growth and development. A pilot study applied the WHO guideline for treatment of acute malnutrition and found that it was possible to re-establish exclusive breastfeeding during inpatient treatment. However, weight gain could not be sustained 6 weeks after discharge suggesting that follow-up breastfeeding support may be required. Our study aimed to pilot the feasibility and acceptability of a follow-up intervention among infants discharged from malnutrition treatment. A home-based post-discharge breastfeeding support intervention was developed to be delivered by breastfeeding peer supporters in a series of three home visits and three intervention phone calls over a period of 7 weeks after discharge from the hospital. The intervention was piloted among 20 mother-infant pairs providing quantitative and qualitative data from a standardized questionnaire and in-depth interviews. Data was analyzed descriptively and using thematic analysis. The median infant birth weight was 2.07 kg and > 50% of the mothers had primary education or less. The intervention was feasible with 100% reach of the target participants with a geographic spread of 25% urban and 75% rural areas. All intervention components were applied consistently, resulting in 100% adherence over a 6-month period. The intervention was accepted by mothers, perceived to be beneficial, and reported to increase breastfeeding confidence. It was adaptable, adjusting to emerging challenges, and was successfully integrated into existing health services. The pilot demonstrated high feasibility and widespread acceptance of the intervention. Its effectiveness to improve weight gain among recovering infants is being determined in a trial.