Maternal determinants of healthy infant feeding practices in Oman: an analytical epidemiology study

Objectives This study investigated the predictors of infant feeding. The focus was on understanding how maternal sociodemographic, psychosocial, and childbirth factors influence infant feeding practices. Methods An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2023 and March 2024, using a validated Infant Feeding Practices and Beliefs questionnaire. Mothers of children aged one to 3 years were recruited from 120 healthcare centers across nine Governorates of Oman. Descriptive, inferential, and multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted, with the significance level set at less than 0.05. Results The study analyzed 3,036 surveys. The findings suggested that healthier beliefs, receipt of feeding counselling, and high awareness are associated with better infant feeding practices. Baccalaureate education or more and family income of at least 1000 OMR showed negative influence on practices, although were positively associated with the beliefs. Cesarean delivery was associated with poorer adherence to feeding practices. Conclusion This study offers insights into the factors associated with infant feeding, emphasizing culturally informed health promotion strategies. Comprehensive infant feeding counseling shows promise in improving adherence to infant feeding recommendations.