Pattern of complete weaning and its related factors in Fars province

Proper pattern of complete weaning and its duration is as important as initiation of breastfeeding. This study aimed to determine the pattern of CBF and its related factors in Fars province. Materials and Methods: In this study, 734 infants aged 2.5 to 3years (urban and rural) were selected using multi-random sampling method. The required data were collected through health records and interviews. In addition to descriptive statistics the effect of demographic and cultural variables on CBF weaning was studied using statistical tests. Results: The mean time of CBF weaning was 21±5.7 months. 50.1% of children ceased CBF at 24 months of age or later. Pattern of CBF weaning in 61% of the children was abrupt. There were associations between mother’s education, husband’s job, method of delivery and birth rank duration of CBF weaning. There weren’t any associations between birth weight and maternal age with duration of CBF weaning. The most (30%) reason of CBF weaning before 24 months of age was the parent’s concern about failure to thrive. Conclusion: Duration of breast feeding in this study was more than other studies, but there is still a discrepancy with WHO recommendation. Abrupt CBF weaning can reduce mother and baby’s compliance and increase the emotional and physical damages.To promote breast feeding indices, the use of modern educational methods and establishment of breast feeding clinics are recommended.