Effect of Accompaniment-Trained Peer Neighbor on Exclusive Breastfeeding Duration and Prevalence: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Although WHO has recommended that all babies get exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), until now EBF practice in Indonesia is still low (38%). Therefore, more efforts are needed for successful of EBF. This study aimed to examine the effect of accompaniment by trained peer neighbor (ATPN) on EBF duration and prevalence. Methods: Quasi-experiment was used to compare the duration of EBF between intervention and control. The intervention group (n=49) received ATPN by scheduled home visits 15 times providing informational and practical support. The control group (n=49) received postpartum care standards. Duration of EBF was measured weekly to 24th week postpartum. Data collection was carried out in June-December 2022. Survival analysis continued with Cox proportional hazards used to analyze the effect of intervention on EBF duration. Results: The median duration of EBF in the intervention and control group were 21.63 weeks and 15.85 weeks respectively (p<0.001). The prevalence of EBF at 24 weeks of the intervention versus control groups was (59.1% vs. 12.2%). The intervention group had risk cessation of EBF 0,32 times compared to the control group (CI: 0.197, 0.528). Conclusion: The ATPN was easy to implement in increasing EBF duration.