Early newborn bathing practices, perceptions, and associated factors among women in public hospitals of South Wollo Zone, northeast Ethiopia: mixed methods study

Bathing a newborn infant immediately after birth affect its adaptation to extrauterine life, particularly by adversely affecting its pulmonary and gastrointestinal circulation, as well as its thermoregulation. However, data on early newborn bathing practices are limited in Ethiopia, particularly in the study area. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess early newborn bathing practice, perception and associated factors among women who gave birth in public hospitals of south Wollo Zone, North-eastern Ethiopia. This study found that 28.1% of women practiced early newborn bathing. Early Newborn bathing practice was significantly associated with rural residency (AOR = 1.88, 95% CI 1.15, 3.10), duration of hospital stays after delivery (AOR: 2.99, 95% CI 1.59, 5.62) and women’s knowledge of neonatal danger signs (AOR: 2.46, 95% CI 1.55, 3.89). Respondents lacked information about the safe timing for newborn bathing, and the reason why bathing was practiced early included a desire for cleanliness and family tradition, while some were unaware of the potential health risks associated with this practice. Health institutions should provide educational programs on newborn bathing for mothers, especially in rural areas, and ensure clear discharge protocols for proper guidance.