Using logistic regression analysis to measure the determinants of exclusive breastfeeding in Al-Kharj Governorate in Saudi Arabia (Preprint)

BACKGROUND Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is the optimal feeding practice for infant health, yet rates remain low worldwide, including in Saudi Arabia OBJECTIVE This study aimed to identify the modifiable factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding among mothers in Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia. METHODS This study aimed to identify the modifiable factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding among mothers in Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia. RESULTS The prevalence of EBF was 38%. Strong positive predictors were >3 antenatal visits (AOR 23.8, 95% CI 18–41), previous breastfeeding experience (AOR 16.6, 95% CI 7.0–21.1), colostrum feeding (AOR 7.8, 95% CI 3.8–16.1), husband’s support (AOR 6.4, 95% CI 2.6–15.9), rooming-in (AOR 6.2, 95% CI 2.7–14.4), and antenatal breastfeeding education (AOR 6.1, 95% CI 2.8–13.3). Key barriers included perceived insufficient milk (AOR 0.08, 95% CI 0.05–0.13), delayed initiation beyond three days (AOR 0.11, 95% CI 0.04–0.33), returning to work (AOR 0.15, 95% CI 0.08–0.28), prelacteal fluids (AOR 0.28, 95% CI 0.14–0.56), high income (AOR 0.33, 95% CI 0.10–1.09), late baby holding (AOR 0.35, 95% CI 0.13–0.94), and restrictive traditions (AOR 0.37, 95% CI 0.21–0.65). CONCLUSIONS Modifiable factors such as education, family support, postnatal care, and supportive maternity policies are critical to improve EBF. Findings provide important evidence for policymakers in Saudi Arabia and similar contexts, highlighting the need for healthcare worker training, , early initiation and six months of paid maternity leave.