"Exploring the determinants to breastfeeding in Saudi Arabia - A Scoping Review"

Abstract

Breastfeeding is widely recognised as crucial for infant health, providing essential nutrients and antibodies that support growth and development. Despite its benefits, the prevalence of breastfeeding in Saudi Arabia remains below global recommendations, with various factors influencing maternal decisions to initiate and continue breastfeeding. This scoping review aims to explore and synthesize the determinants affecting breastfeeding practices among mothers in Saudi Arabia, providing insights that can inform policy and practice. The review followed the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines to ensure methodological rigor and transparency. A systematic search was conducted across multiple databases, including Medline, JSTOR, Elsevier, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, focusing on studies published between 2010 and 2024. The inclusion criteria encompassed research articles in English and Arabic that examined the determinants of breastfeeding among Saudi mothers. Studies were screened, and relevant data were charted, summarized, and synthesized to identify key themes. 25 studies were included in this scoping review. The review identified six primary themes influencing breastfeeding practices in Saudi Arabia: systemic barriers within healthcare settings, the role of social support, knowledge and awareness levels, work-related challenges, cultural influences, and maternal health and well-being. Systemic barriers, such as inadequate hospital policies and staff training, were found to hinder breastfeeding initiation and continuation. The lack of social support from family and healthcare professionals was another critical determinant, often leading to early cessation of breastfeeding. Additionally, gaps in knowledge and awareness, particularly regarding the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, were prevalent. Work-related challenges, including the lack of supportive workplace policies, further exacerbated the difficulties faced by breastfeeding mothers. Cultural influences, both supportive and inhibitive, played a significant role in shaping breastfeeding practices, while maternal health issues, both physical and mental, were significant barriers to successful breastfeeding. The determinants of breastfeeding in Saudi Arabia are complex and multifaceted, requiring a holistic approach to address the barriers identified in this review. To improve breastfeeding rates, targeted interventions are needed to address systemic healthcare barriers, enhance social support, increase maternal knowledge, create breastfeeding-friendly workplace environments, and consider the cultural context. By implementing these strategies, stakeholders can create a supportive environment that empowers mothers to achieve their breastfeeding goals, ultimately improving maternal and infant health outcomes in Saudi Arabia. Future research should focus on evaluating the effectiveness of these interventions and exploring additional strategies to support breastfeeding within the Saudi context.