The Association of Low Back Pain with Different Breastfeeding Positions in Exclusive Breastfeeding Mothers

Abstract

This cross-sectional observational study investigated the preferred breastfeeding positions among exclusive breastfeeding mothers and evaluated their association with low back pain (LBP). A self-structured questionnaire was administered to 100 mothers aged 20 to 40 years who were 12 to 15 weeks postpartum and recruited from tertiary hospitals and community settings. Descriptive analysis revealed that the cradle hold was the most frequently adopted position (58%), followed by the cross-cradle hold (24%). Notably, a high prevalence of low back pain was reported, with 76% of mothers experiencing discomfort. While 83% of the participants had received professional advice regarding proper feeding postures, a significant knowledge gap was identified concerning nutritional guidelines, as only 21% were aware of the clinical definition of exclusive breastfeeding. A Chi-square test was applied to determine the relationship between maternal positioning and musculoskeletal discomfort. The statistical analysis revealed no significant association between specific breastfeeding positions and the occurrence of low back pain (p = 0.6727). Consequently, the null hypothesis was accepted. The high incidence of LBP among the sample population, despite the lack of direct correlation to a singular feeding posture, suggests that maternal discomfort is likely multi-factorial. Contributing elements may include general postpartum physical weakness, prolonged sitting, and the broader ergonomic strains associated with daily infant care chores. These findings highlight the necessity for comprehensive postpartum ergonomic education that extends beyond breastfeeding positions to encompass general maternal physical well-being.