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Published on: September 22, 2023
Exclusive breastfeeding--the relationship between maternal perception and practice
U O Uchendu1, A N Ikefuna, I J Emodi
1Department of Paediatrics, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria.
Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice
|March 25, 2010
Summary
Maternal perception of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) significantly influences practice rates. Educating mothers on EBF benefits is crucial for improving infant health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Maternal and Child Health
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) offers significant benefits to infants, mothers, and society.
- Despite known advantages, EBF practice rates remain low in many regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess mothers' perceptions regarding exclusive breastfeeding (EBF).
- To determine the correlation between maternal perceptions and actual EBF practices.
Main Methods:
- A study involving interviews with 200 mothers to gather data on their views of EBF's merits and demerits.
- Analysis of the relationship between perceived benefits and actual EBF practice patterns.
Main Results:
- A strong positive correlation was observed between mothers' positive perceptions of EBF benefits and higher EBF practice rates.
- Mothers who perceived EBF babies as healthier, less prone to disease, and more intelligent reported higher EBF adherence.
- Excellent knowledge of EBF definition and duration was noted among the study participants.
Conclusions:
- Maternal perception plays a key role in the adoption of exclusive breastfeeding practices.
- Targeted educational interventions are recommended to enhance mothers' understanding and acceptance of EBF's advantages for improved public health outcomes.
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