Factors Affecting Early Feeding Using Complementary Foods Breast Milk on Infants Under 6 Months of Age in Nagan Raya Regency Indonesia

Abstract

Background: The exclusive breastfeeding of infants aged 0–6 months in the working area of the Jeuram Community Health Center is 27.1%, which is below the target of 80%. The failure of exclusive breastfeeding is directly caused by the early feeding of complementary foods or MP-ASI before babies reach six months of age. Before the baby’s digestive system is fully developed, giving solid food leads to indigestion and constipation. The provision of early complementary feeding to children is influenced by maternal parenting in fulfilling family nutrition. The success of exclusive breastfeeding is related to the mother's ability and belief in breastfeeding her baby. This study analyzes the factors that influence the early MP-ASI for infants <6 months of age.

Methods: This research is a quantitative study with a cross-sectional design. The sample included 54 mothers with a baby <6 months of age. The data analysis was carried out using bivariate, multivariate, and multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results: The results showed that the level of knowledge (p < 0.001), family support (p < 0.001), and socio-cultural factors (p = 0.001) significantly affected the provision of early MP-ASI for infants aged <6 months, while the support of health care workers (p > 0.001) showed no relationship with early MP-ASI. The results of the F-test (p = 0.000, α = 5%) showed that this model is suitable for reducing early MP-ASI. The logistic regression test correlated knowledge, family support, and socio-cultural support with the provision of early MP-ASI. The final model generated is as follows: Y = −1.628 + 1.046 X1 + 0.993 X2 + 2.198 X3.

Conclusion: This study concludes that knowledge, attitude, family support, health care worker support, and socio-cultural support influence early MP-ASI for infants aged <6 months.