Demographic Factors and Determinants of Physical Activity and Breast Feeding Practices During Puerperium in Saudi Women

AIM: This cross-sectional study describes the practice of different myths regarding newborns and maternal physical activity among Saudi women during puerperium. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was conducted at Mother and Child Hospital, Buraidah from January to December 2011. RESULTS: The multinomial logistic regression (MRA) on age, education, occupation, parity and mode of delivery was statistically significant (χ(2) (60) = 487.656, p < .001). Individuals who were between 25 and 30, had education level primary or below, para2 -4 were more likely to limit household activities. Women in the age group of 25-30 were 41 times more likely to have no exercise. Women with parity 2-4 were 24 times more likely to abstain from sex during puerperium as compared to Para 5 and above. Individuals who had a normal vaginal birth were approximately 9 times less likely to be in the kofalaya’s group. Individuals below college level education were more likely to believe that breast feeding in front of others may steal mother’s milk. Women below 25 years of age and women with vaginal delivery were more likely to avoid colostrums feeding. CONCLUSION: Health Education programs are needed to encourage women to increase physical activity during puerperium and encourage breast feeding. Focus groups for improving physical activity should include age group 25-30 and women with primary and below level education. Women with cesarean delivery should be counseled against kofalayas and women with vaginal delivery should be encouraged for colostrums feeding.