Short communication, Note
Presentation of the length of breastfeeding in the area of Blato on Korčula
Mirna Žulec
; Technical College in Bjelovar
Iva Bačić
; Technical College in Bjelovar
Zrinka Puharić
; Technical College in Bjelovar
Ksenija Eljuga
; Technical College in Bjelovar
Abstract
Breastfeeding is the most natural and the most appropriate food for infants and young
children.
The aim of this paper is to determine the duration of breastfeeding in Blato, Island of Korcula
in Croatia. Survey research included 95 mothers with residence in Blato.
Data from the Croatian health statistical year book for 2013 show breastfeeding rate was very
low. From 0 to 2 months of age exclusive breast milk is fed 71,8% infants. At 3 to 5 months
of age breast fed was 58,2% of children. 19% of mothers continued to breastfeed her child
after the age of 6 months.
Data gathered about duration of breastfeeding show that 39% of respondents are breastfed six
months or more, without supplemental feeding. About quarter (28%) of respondents are
breastfed six months or more, with complementary foods, and 9% were trying to breastfeed,
but failed.
About third (31%) of respondents had some difficulties in breastfeeding, such as painful
breasts and lack of milk. Only 19% of respondents attended some kind of education about
breastfeeding. About half of mothers (49%) were led by their own experience or by gaining
the experience through the period of breastfeeding.
The increase of breastfeeding rates in the Republic of Croatia can be enhanced through better
connection of health care systems, by investing in the education of health professionals, with
continuous upgrading of knowledge supported with latest findings about breastfeeding and
with additional employment of public-health nurses, but also by their bigger efficiency. It is
also very important to inform the community about the benefits of breastfeeding.
Almost every well-informed and encouraged women can breastfeed. Longer breastfeed lead
to variety of benefits for the child, the mother and for the community as well.
Keywords: breastfeeding, duration of breastfeeding, difficulty breastfeeding, advantages of
breastfeeding
Keywords
breastfeeding, duration of breastfeeding, difficulty breastfeeding, advantages of breastfeeding
Hrčak ID:
299089
URI
Publication date:
7.4.2017.
Visits: 175 *