Publication:

The factors associated with chronic energy deficiency in breastfeeding mothers

Background Chronic energy deficiency (CED) in breastfeeding mothers is very likely to occur because apart from the mother meeting the recovery needs of giving birth, the mother also provides breast milk to her baby. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with the incidence of CED in breastfeeding mothers.

Methods The research was conducted on 203 breastfeeding mothers who were randomly selected from 10 villages in Kefamenanu Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), Indonesia. Data collection was done directly by nutrition officer with interviews using g-form. Data were analysed using the Chi Square.

Results It was found that the factors associated with the incidence of CED in breastfeeding mothers were age {OR=0.5 times (CI 95%: 0.257-1.054)} and parity of the number of children in the family OR=2.1 times (95%: 1-4.4)}, as well as family income which is not directly related to the incidence of CED in the mother {OR=1.7 times (CI 95%: 0.5-6.3)}.

Conclusions Factors associated with CED in breastfeeding mothers are age, the parity of the number of children in family, and family income. Support from the family is vital for breastfeeding mothers to meet their nutritional needs.