Significant Difference in Breastfeeding Rates between Ultraorthodox and Secular Jews in Ashdod

The importance of breastfeeding is well recognised, the benefits include protection against child infections, SIDS, reduced risk of breast cancer for nursing mothers and improved birth spacing. The aim of this study is to assess the demographics of breastfeeding in the population of Ashdod and its surrounding with regards to the differences in age, sociodemographic factors (income and sibling numerosity), education, ethnicity and religion.

Data was collected beginning December 2018 to March 2019 by questionnaire distributed to mothers of infants

153 mothers were included in the study. No influence on breastfeeding rates was observed in relation to education, age, sociodemographic factors or ethnicity (Ashkenazi vs Sephardic), with the exception of a single significant effect found in mother of age 26-30yrs with an average income (p<.001). Regarding religiosity, a significant effect (p<.01) was found, revealing that ultra-orthodox mothers nursed significantly more than secular, traditional and religious mothers(36.4% vs 9%, 16.7% and 18.2% respectively).

Jewish orthodox mothers breastfeed significantly more than other religious sectors. Since no association was observed from other sociodemographic factors relevant to this group such as income and sibling numerosity, we presume this may be due to the fact that birth control in this population is limited and breastfeeding may be a mean to increased birth spacing.