Factors Associated with Exclusive Breastfeeding in Rural Enrekang, Indonesia: A Cross-Sectional Study

<ns5:p>Background Exclusive breastfeeding is central to infant survival, nutrition, immune protection, and development, but sustained practice remains uneven across rural communities. This study assessed maternal, infant, social, nutritional, and health-service factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding in Curio District, Enrekang Regency, Indonesia. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from November to December 2024 among 193 mothers of infants aged 0–6 months selected by random sampling from a population of 386. Data were obtained using a structured questionnaire and maternal and child health records. Bivariate associations were assessed with chi-square or exact tests, and variables with p < 0.25 entered multivariable logistic regression. Results Exclusive breastfeeding was reported by 24 mothers (12.4%). Maternal age (p = 0.009), parity (p = 0.010), dietary diversity (p = 0.046), and postnatal breastfeeding education (p < 0.001) were associated in bivariate analysis. After adjustment, age < 20 or > 35 years was associated with higher odds of non-exclusive breastfeeding (adjusted odds ratio 6.08; 95% confidence interval 1.07–34.39; p = 0.041), while absence of postnatal breastfeeding education showed the strongest association (adjusted odds ratio 20.24; 95% confidence interval 6.19–66.13; p < 0.001). Parity and dietary diversity were no longer significant. Conclusion Exclusive breastfeeding was uncommon in this rural population. Maternal age-related vulnerability and the lack of post-discharge breastfeeding education were independently associated with non-exclusive breastfeeding. Continuity of skilled counselling, targeted support for mothers at age-related risk, and community-based follow-up should be strengthened.</ns5:p>