Relationship between infants’ feeding pattern and mothers’ physical and psychological health among the mothers covered by the health centers of Isfahan in 2013

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: Infants’ feeding is one of the critical periods in women’s health that can influence their life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between infants’ feeding patterns and mothers’ physical and psychological dimensions of quality of life.

Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 189 mothers were selected by convenience sampling (n = 63 in each group of infant feeding pattern) from Isfahan in 2013. Demographic and World Health Organization’s WHOQOL-BREF Quality of Life questionnaires were completed. Data were analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistical methods through SPSS.

Results: There was no significant difference in demographic characteristics and the mean total score of quality of life between groups (breastfeeding = 85.7, formula = 83.9, and combination feeding of breast milk and formula = 82.1). Mean scores of physical dimension of quality of life were significantly different between groups (breastfeeding = 24.7, formula = 23.7, and combination feeding of breast milk and formula = 22.7). Mean scores of psychological dimension were not significantly different between groups (breastfeeding = 21.3, formula = 20.6, and combination feeding of breast milk and formula = 20.4).

Conclusions: The results of this study showed that mothers in breastfeeding group have higher score in quality of life and physical and psychological dimensions, compared to the other two groups. We can increase mothers’ health and quality of life and the rate of breastfeeding with wide planning and supportive intervention by the families and society.

Key words: Infant feeding pattern, Iran, mothers, quality of life