SOCIAL NETWORK INFLUENCE ON BREASTFEEDING PRACTICES AMONG ADOLESCENT MOTHERS IN SOUTH ASIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Alisha  Zainab

Authors

Alisha Zainab Government College University Lahore, Pakistan. Author

Keywords:

Breastfeeding, Adolescent Mothers, Social Support, Family, South Asia, Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Adolescent mothers in South Asia face significant challenges in adhering to recommended breastfeeding practices, which are critical for infant survival and development. While social support is known to influence breastfeeding, the specific roles and impact of family and community networks on initiation and duration in this vulnerable demographic are not well synthesized.

Objective: This systematic review aimed to analyze how family and community networks impact breastfeeding initiation and duration among adolescent mothers in South Asia.

Methods: This study systematically reviewed existing research from 2014 to 2024, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. We searched multiple academic databases for observational or qualitative studies on adolescent mothers in South Asia, specifically exploring how family and community dynamics affect breastfeeding. Two reviewers independently selected studies, extracted data, and assessed bias using JBI tools. Given the diversity of the research, the findings were summarized narratively.

Results: Eight studies (n=5,847 adolescent mothers) were included. The evidence consistently identified grandmothers as the most influential social actor. Their support was significantly associated with higher odds of early breastfeeding initiation (AOR 2.45, 95% CI 1.78-3.38) and exclusive breastfeeding for six months (AOR 1.89, 95% CI 1.32-2.71). Conversely, traditional beliefs among grandmothers promoting prelacteal feeds were a major barrier. Spousal support was beneficial but often less directly influential than grandmotherly advice.

Conclusion: Family networks, particularly grandmothers, are paramount in shaping the breastfeeding practices of adolescent mothers in South Asia. Public health interventions must adopt an intergenerational, family-centered approach to effectively promote evidence-based breastfeeding practices. Future research should employ longitudinal designs to establish causality and evaluate the efficacy of family-inclusive counseling models.

Author Biography

Alisha Zainab, Government College University Lahore, Pakistan.

Student of Government College University Lahore, Pakistan.

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