Analysis of factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding practice among mothers working at a tertiary health institution in South West Nigeria

Abstract

Background: In Sub-Saharan Africa, with high rates of infant mortality, only 33% of infants are exclusively breastfed. Objective: This study investigated factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) practice among mothers working at a prominent teaching hospital in South West Nigeria. Materials and Methods: One hundred and sixty mothers comprising seven categories of staff were randomly selected from various departments at the teaching hospital in south-Western Nigeria. Demographic data and perceptions of the participants were obtained through the use of a self-structured questionnaire. Data were analysed with SPSS at a 5% level of significance. Results: Participants' mean age was 37.7 ± 5.6 years. Majority (96.3%) of the respondents were aware of EBF practice. Many participants (95%) opined that EBF is economical and the knowledge that it can reduce the risk of premenopausal breast cancer (80.6%) by 50% are the most important encouraging factors. Very busy work schedules and inadequate creche facilities in proximity to the hospital constituted the major constraints to EBF. The practice of EBF for the infants of respondents at the hospital was put at 53.1%. The study showed there is no (P = 0.219) significant relationship between the education level of the mothers and the practice of EBF. This is the same (P = 0.332) with respect to mothers' professions. However, a statistically significant (P = 0.008) relationship between respondents' level of awareness and EBF practice was found. Conclusions: Effective practice of EBF among mothers was mainly hindered by busy work schedules. The promotion of EBF should include programmes involving nursing mothers and other members of the public. Facilities such as crèche should be provided by government and private organisations at various workplaces to make EBF easily practicable.