Abstract:
Breastfeeding has been recognized as the most important and complete source of
nutrition for children up to 2 years old. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive
breastfeeding for infants from 0-6 months and complementary feeding from 6 months to 2 years
old. Despite this, only one third of the children below six months are being exclusively breastfed.
Especially among teenage mothers, breastfeeding may be a significant issue for research.
A self-developed and pre-tested Breastfeeding Questionnaire was administered using face
to face interviews with 202 women in selected health centers in Las Pinas. The respondents were
mothers between ages 13-20 years with at least one child below 2 years old.
The results showed that only 55 percent were currently breastfeeding their child although
in general, the respondents indicated good knowledge and positive attitudes. They rated their
own mothers as the most important source of knowledge and influence in their decision to
breastfeed. Pain and lack of milk were the biggest barriers to breastfeeding, while the benefits for
the infant was seen as the main advantage.
The mothers reported the need for more information, particularly on proper breastfeeding
procedures. The mothers mentioned that they learn best when the information is visually
presented to them and when they are taught by other mothers whom they view as more more
experienced. The study recommended ways to improve uptake of breastfeeding among teen
mothers.
