Unveiling breastfeeding knowledge among Muslim women in Qatar: an exploratory study

Low global breastfeeding rates pose a significant public health issue. In Qatar, the majority of Muslim women do not breastfeed their babies despite guidelines from Islamic and health organizations. Various factors influence women’s decisions to breastfeed, but limited research exists on breastfeeding knowledge and its predictors among Muslim women. This study aims to (a) assess breastfeeding knowledge and its sources among Muslim women in Qatar and (b) identify predictors of breastfeeding knowledge. A group of 414 postpartum Muslim women was recruited using convenience sampling. Data on breastfeeding knowledge was collected using a pre-developed questionnaire, summarized, and overall knowledge scores were computed. Predictors of breastfeeding knowledge were identified using linear regression. Although participants demonstrated accurate breastfeeding knowledge, notable gaps remain, particularly in understanding the protective effects of breastfeeding against conditions such as diabetes (48.1%) and ovarian cancers (52.7%), as well as guidelines on breastfeeding initiation (25.0%) and exclusivity (29.7%). The participants identified television and social media, mothers, and mothers-in-law as the primary sources of their breastfeeding knowledge. Predictors of higher breastfeeding knowledge included higher levels of education, living with a husband only, prior breastfeeding experience, and the intention to exclusively breastfeed. To improve breastfeeding knowledge and practices, targeted educational programs and family-oriented media campaigns that address these knowledge gaps are essential. Additionally, providing accessible counseling support can reinforce accurate breastfeeding information and create supportive breastfeeding environments. These strategies are crucial for bridging knowledge gaps and promoting breastfeeding rates in Qatar and globally.