Breastfeeding Practices and Associated Factors Among Mothers of Infants Aged 12 Months or Younger Attending Selected Tertiary Hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Breastfeeding is essential for optimal infant growth and development which promotes health by preventing malnutrition and reducing the risk of infectious diseases. This study aimed to assess breastfeeding practices among mothers and identify factors influencing these practices among mothers of infants aged 12 months or younger in a tertiary hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from June to August 2023 at Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH). A total of 250 mothers with infants aged ≤ 12 months were recruited using Cochran's formula. Data were collected through a structured, pre-tested questionnaire via face-to-face interviews. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27, chi-squared tests and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed (<i>p</i> < 0.05). The prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) was 80.4%. In adjusted models, mothers aged ≤ 26 years were less likely to exclusively breastfeed compared to older mothers (AOR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.44-0.78, <i>p</i> < 0.001). Mothers with primary education also showed reduced odds of EBF compared to those with no education (AOR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.48-0.94, <i>p</i> = 0.020). By contrast, higher breastfeeding practice scores were positively associated with EBF (AOR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.16-1.45, <i>p</i> < 0.001). Other sociodemographic factors, including infant age, birth order, father's education, maternal occupation, place of delivery, and infant sex, were not significant in the multivariable analysis. Breastfeeding practices in this population were strongly influenced by maternal age, maternal education, and breastfeeding practice levels. Targeted interventions focusing on young and less-educated mothers, alongside improved breastfeeding support, may further strengthen EBF practices and improve infant health outcomes in Bangladesh.