Predictors of breastfeeding among women in Lao People’s Democratic Republic: a prospective cohort study

Breastfeeding is a worldwide practice that provides many health benefits for both mothers and babies. However, many women still do not breastfeed for the recommended duration, or even at all. Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), a country in Southeast Asia, has very low breastfeeding rates compared with neighboring countries. We conducted a prospective cohort study to identify predictors of breastfeeding among women in Lao PDR. Participants in this study were drawn from a multigenerational birth cohort that was launched in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR, in 2020. A survey was conducted at approximately 1 month postpartum, which included both breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding women. In unadjusted analyses, we found that maternal age, education level, and occupation were associated with breastfeeding status at 30 days postpartum. After adjustment, occupation, daily physical activity, joint pain, and exclusive breastfeeding intention were the metrics associated with breastfeeding status. These findings suggest that prenatal intention and maternal health characteristics are associated with breastfeeding continuation in Lao PDR. The results emphasize the importance of further research to identify breastfeeding practices.