Preliminary Study of Medication Safety During Breastfeeding: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among Lactating Mothers in Zawiya and Surman Cities, Libya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54361/LJMR.20.2.65Keywords:
Breastfeeding, Lactation, Medication safety, Maternal knowledge, Counselling, LibyaAbstract
Medication use during breastfeeding is common, yet insufficient knowledge about drug safety may lead to inappropriate medication practices and unnecessary interruption of breastfeeding. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of lactating women regarding medication use during breastfeeding in Zawia and Surman Cities, western Libya and to identify factors associated with adequate knowledge. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 lactating women in Zawia and Surman, Libya, from January to June 2026. Data were collected using a validated Arabic questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, and medication-related practices. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 27, including chi-square tests, correlation analysis, and multivariable logistic regression. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.
Results: The mean age of participants was 29.8 ± 5.7 years. Good knowledge regarding medication use during breastfeeding was observed among 44.0% of participants, while 35.0% had moderate knowledge and 21.0% had poor knowledge. Most women recognised that medications can pass into breast milk (78.0%) and that some medications are safe during lactation (85.0%). Physicians were the main source of medication information (46.0%), followed by pharmacists (24.0%). However, self-medication (11.0%) and unnecessary breastfeeding discontinuation (9.0%) were reported. University education (AOR = 2.64; 95% CI: 1.45–4.79; P = 0.001) and professional counselling (AOR = 3.18; 95% CI: 1.82–5.54; P < 0.001) were independent predictors of good knowledge. Knowledge scores were positively correlated with safer medication practices (r = 0.41, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Although breastfeeding women in western Libya showed acceptable awareness regarding medication use during lactation, important knowledge gaps and unsafe practices remain. Strengthening professional counselling and targeted educational interventions may improve medication safety and support continued breastfeeding.
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