A Qualitative Investigation of Traditional Breastfeeding Practices Among Lactating Mothers in Northern Ghana

Infant health is closely linked to feeding practices, with the World Health Organization recommending exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life. However, in some underprivileged communities in Ghana, this recommendation is not consistently followed, and traditional breastfeeding practices continue to prevail.

This study aimed to explore the indigenous breastfeeding practices among lactating mothers in Northern Ghana.

A qualitative descriptive design was employed, involving in-depth interviews with 15 participants who had babies younger than 6 months. All interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic data analysis.

The study revealed that many participants believed colostrum should not be given to babies, as it was considered unsuitable. Some participants perceived the breast milk of first-time mothers as bitter. Also, a common belief was that new-born babies should be given water as their first intake, and there was a consensus that introducing water and food before 6 months was acceptable. The findings highlighted that elderly women in the community play a significant role in preserving and enforcing indigenous practices among lactating mothers.

Indigenous breastfeeding practices remain widespread in rural Northern Ghana. There is a need for more robust breastfeeding campaigns to address and modify these traditional practices to align with recommended guidelines.