The Association Between Early Breastfeeding Initiation and Community Socio-Cultural Factors: An Observational Study in the Working Area of Asparaga Community Health Center, Gorontalo Regency

Abstract

Introduction and Methods

Early initiation of breastfeeding is an essential step in supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Goal 3, namely ensuring healthy lives and promoting infant well-being. However, its practice often intersects with community socio-cultural values. This study aimed to determine the association between community socio-cultural factors and early breastfeeding initiation practices among infants in the working area of the Asparaga Community Health Center, Gorontalo Regency, in 2017. This was a quantitative study utilizing an observational design with an analytic survey approach. The study population encompassed all breastfeeding mothers in the working area of the Asparaga Community Health Center. The sample was selected using an accidental sampling technique, involving 30 respondents. Data were collected using a dichotomous scale questionnaire to measure socio-cultural variables (categories: agree and disagree) and early breastfeeding practices (categories: provided and not provided). Data analysis was performed using the bivariate Chi-Square statistical test.

Results

The statistical test results revealed a p-value of 0.03 (p < 0.05). This indicates a statistically significant association between socio-cultural factors and early breastfeeding initiation practices in the working area of the Asparaga Community Health Center.

Conclusions and Recommendations

Community socio-cultural factors are closely associated with a mother's decision to initiate early breastfeeding. Therefore, health promotion approaches must consider local cultural values to optimize maternal and child health outcomes.