The aim of the current study is to analyse the trends, determinants of prelacteal feeding (PLF) and its relations with the mode of delivery among infants <24 months over the years 2003–2018.

We pooled data from Turkey Demographic and Health Surveys (TDHS). The key outcome variable was PLF. Factors associated with PLF were analysed by using complex sample multiple logistic regression analysis, separately and merged database.

TDHS in 2003, 2008, 2013 and 2018.

Mother–infant dyads (n 4942).

PLF rates fluctuated between 29·3 and 41·4 %. The most common types of PLF were infant formula (61·1 %) followed by sugar/glucose water (24·9 %) and plain water (9·3 %). PLF rate was 1·51 times higher (95 % CI 1·28, 1·78) in cases delivered by caesarean section as compared with those delivered by vaginal route. According to the initiation time of breast-feeding after delivery, the most significant absolute change in PLF rate was observed within 1 h (10·9 % increase). Delayed initiation of breast-feeding was associated with significantly higher odds of PLF compared with the first hour (1 to < 2 h: adjusted OR (AOR) 1·29, 95 % CI 1·04, 1·61; 2–23 h: AOR 1·73, 95 % CI 1·42, 2·11; ≥24 h: AOR 11·37, 95 % CI 8·81, 14·69).

To eliminate suboptimal breast-feeding practices, counselling on breast-feeding and delivery type during antenatal visits, postnatal breast-feeding support and social support should be provided to all mothers and families.