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Prevalence of and Factors Associated with Delayed Initiation of Breastfeeding of Newborns in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Despite the adverse health effects associated with delayed initiation of breastfeeding (DIB) (i.e., breastfeeding initiation after one hour of birth), the prevalence of DIB remains high in many developing countries, including Bangladesh. This study aims at investigating the prevalence and contributing factors of DIB in Bangladesh. This cross-sectional research analyzed a weighted sample of 3,532 women derived from the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2022 data. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify the factors influencing DIB. The results depict that 63% of the children who had ever been breastfed experienced DIB. Results from the multivariable analysis indicated that mothers who delivered by cesarean section (AOR = 2.16; 95% CI 1.76, 2.66) and those who delivered in other health facilities (AOR = 1.51; 95% CI 1.21, 1.88) were more likely to experience DIB than mothers who delivered at home. Additionally, mothers living in the Sylhet division (AOR = 0.65; 95% CI 0.45, 0.93) exhibited lower odds of DIB in comparison to mothers residing in the Dhaka division. These findings have important policy implications for achieving Sustainable Development Goal3 and the Bangladesh National Health Policy 2011, with a focus on reducing neonatal and under-five mortality rates. The study suggests fostering closer interactions between mothers and their newborns; enhancing the interpersonal skills of healthcare providers; and initiating awareness campaigns for traditional birth attendants, family members, and mothers regarding the importance of early breastfeeding initiation to reduce the increasing trend of DIB in Bangladesh.

Source: SAGE Open

DOI: 10.1177/21582440261489972

Authors: Ashim Kumar Nandi, Shahinur Akter, Sanjoy Kumar Chanda

Institutions: University of Barishal, Khulna University

Language: English

Topic: Breastfeeding Practices and Influences

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Zero hunger, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,600