SYSTEMIC ASPECTS OF BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT: THE ROLE OF HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS AND ORGANIZATIONAL BARRIERS

Abstract

Introduction. Breastfeeding is the optimal method of infant nutrition and an important factor in preserving the health of both children and mothers. Despite the availability of international recommendations and a strong evidence base, the level of its support within the healthcare system remains insufficient. Objective. To assess the involvement of healthcare professionals in breastfeeding counseling and their perception of the effectiveness and barriers to the implementation of breastfeeding support measures. Materials and methods. An anonymous survey of healthcare professionals of various specialties was conducted. The questionnaire included items on socio-demographic characteristics, level of knowledge, counseling practices, barriers, and evaluation of state breastfeeding support programs. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics. Results and discussion. It was found that 82.4±3.7% of healthcare professionals reported awareness of WHO recommendations, while only 46.3±4.8% had received specialized training. Regular counseling is provided by 32.4% of physicians (9.3±2.8% systematically); however, only 33.3±4.5% reported having sufficient time for counseling, and 13.9±3.3% are regularly provided with methodological materials. Collaboration with lactation consultants remains limited (15.7±3.5%), and only 29.6±4.4% of respondents confirmed the effectiveness of national breastfeeding support programs. According to healthcare professionals, the main barriers include insufficient maternal awareness (63.0±4.6%), sociocultural factors (50.0±4.8%), and lack of family support (47.2±4.8%). Conclusions. An insufficient level of training among healthcare professionals and a gap between awareness and counseling practice were identified. Only one-third of physicians provide regular counseling, which is associated with organizational constraints and resource limitations. According to healthcare professionals, the main barriers are predominantly socially determined. The findings highlight the need to strengthen systemic support for breastfeeding and to improve the professional training of healthcare providers.