Challenges of feeding premature babies during the first six months of life: a survey on experiences by teenage mothers

Abstract

Background: Feeding of premature babies is a challenge and more so by teenage mothers. The challenges experienced by teenage mothers in regard to successful breastfeeding of premature babies are uniquely associated with their age and the surrounding environment (Smith, 2012). Objective: To determine the challenges faced by teenage mothers when feeding premature babies during the first six months of life. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey involving 167 teenage mothers whose babies were born prematurely and were within the age group of six weeks to six months was conducted among the teenage mothers attending Maternal Child Health (MCH) clinic at Pumwani Maternity Hospital, Nairobi. Both quantitative and qualitative data was collected using a semistructured questionnaire and a focus group discussion guide respectively. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 20 while the qualitative data was categorized and analyzed and references made based on the study themes. Descriptive statistics was used to examine quantitative variables. Person’s Correlation Coefficient was used to test the association and significance between the variables. Confidence interval was set at 95%, p value at <0.05. Results: Results were presented in form of frequency tables, charts, graphs and narrative explanation. Majority (68%, n=115) of the mothers used breastfeeding method to feed their babies. Teenage mothers aged 18 to 19 years were likely to exclusively breastfeed compared to those within the age bracket of 15 to 17 years. Majority (82.6%, n = 138) of the mothers fed the babies on demand. Feeding options of the babies were influenced by the health care providers, family members and peers. More than half (52%, n = 87) of the respondents reported insufficient breast milk supply as a challenge they faced when breastfeeding the baby among other challenges. Conclusion: Not all the babies were exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life. The babies were introduced to other feeds before attaining the age of six months. This is because teenage mothers perceive they have insufficient breast milk supply for the babies. The mothers’ decision on feeding options during illness dependents on advice they get from family members among other people around them. Recommendations: Creation of awareness among the teenage mothers and the significant members of their families on importance of breastfeeding exclusively before six months of age is necessary. Initiation of interventions that will improve lactation among teenage mothers is necessary. There is need for technical and positive family support to improve the feeding practices among teenage mothers at home