Background and objectives Cesarean section may lead to suboptimal breastfeeding outcomes, though evidence has been mixed. Factors such as premature birth, birthweight, and maternal age may independently increase risk of cesarean and hinder breastfeeding initiation, while maternal preferences, support, and sociostructural barriers may influence breastfeeding practices beyond the immediate postpartum period. Methodology We assessed impacts of cesarean section and gestational factors on breastfeeding duration among Indigenous Qom mothers in Argentina who have strong traditional breastfeeding support. We modeled transitions from exclusive breastfeeding to complementary feeding and from complementary feeding to full weaning in a Bayesian time-to-event framework with birth mode and gestational covariates (n = 89 infants). Results Estimated median time to full weaning was 30 months. Cesarean-delivered babies were weaned an average of 5 months later adjusting for gestational age, maternal parity, and infant sex. No factors were associated with time to complementary feeding, and time-to-complementary feeding was not associated with time to full weaning. Conclusions and implications Among Indigenous Qom mothers in Argentina, cesarean section was not associated with suboptimal breastfeeding outcomes. Although some Qom mothers do experience early breastfeeding problems, particularly following first birth, problems are not more frequent following cesarean delivery. Traditional postpartum kin and community support during prolonged postpartum periods may be instrumental in helping mothers to overcome early breastfeeding problems due to cesarean or other risk factors. Lay summary We examined associations between cesarean section and breastfeeding transitions among Indigenous mothers in Argentina. Mothers delivering via cesarean section did not introduce complementary foods earlier, and conversely weaned later than mothers who delivered vaginally. Postpartum kin support typical of traditional birthing practices may help mothers overcome early breastfeeding problems.

Objectives The aims of this study were to explore the food consumption patterns of Qom preschoolers and to describe cultural domains about the significance of feeding in this indigenous population in northern Argentina. Design and methods This cross-sectional and mixed-methods study was conducted in 2016–2017 and focused on 160 preschoolers and their mothers in the village of Namqom. It used a closed questionnaire, three 24-h recalls, and free listing techniques. Results Qom preschoolers had a high prevalence of excess weight (25%) and stunting (16%). Mothers reported only 38 food items consumed by preschoolers. Almost all of the children (96%) consume white bread, while 89% consume milk, 87.5% sweet cookies, 84.7% some sort of stew, 72% fried dough and 63.1% soup. In addition, it was found that preschoolers did not consume neither fresh and varied vegetables, nor available fruits. They did not consume fresh fish and other meats, either. Caregivers related the term “feeding” with “having to eat”, which might be associated with the poverty context in which they live. Caregivers also mentioned “eating right” to get healthy or grow up strong. Conclusions The present study revealed a relatively elevated consumption of high energy, but nutritionally poor food, and malnutrition, which reflects the impacts of poverty. We found that the cultural domain of food is linked to survival and depletion ideas.

No abstract

No abstract