Publication:

Effect of peer support group in sustaining exclusive breastfeeding practice among women of reproductive age, Kenya

Background Breastfeeding is a high-impact and low-cost health intervention. Late initiation and poor practice of exclusive breastfeeding for six months after delivery is linked to infant morbidity and mortality. This study determines the effect of peer support group in sustaining exclusive breastfeeding practice for six months with no other liquids or solids after delivery.

Methods A quasi-experimental intervention study was undertaken in Makueni County between 2022 to 2023. Mothers recruited in their second trimester of pregnancy, mother-baby pair followed up for 6 months post-delivery. Peer support groups initiated in the intervention group sessions guided by WHO/UNICEF infant and young child feeding policy. The control group received routine health information as indicated by the ministry of health. Data analyzed by use of Mantel-Haenszel common odds ratio estimate and independent t-test.

Results A sample size of 721 participants, Common Odds Ratio Estimate calculated to determine the effect of peer support group on time of initiating breastfeeding after delivery indicated neonates in the intervention site were 6.36 times more likely to have been initiated to breastfeeding within one hour after delivery compared to those from control site (natural log estimate 1.851) (OR: 6.364; 95% CI: 3.285 to 12.326). Independent t-test for exclusive breastfeeding practice mean score, the intervention site improved from 54.11% to 83.04% (p<0.001).

Conclusions Peer support group intervention was effective in the initiation of breastfeeding and nurturing the practice of exclusive breastfeeding for six months after delivery.