Barriers to Exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers and its influence on infants morbidity:A study at Mpatasie

Abstract

The study focused on the knowledge on exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers at mpatasie.A descriptive cross-sectional study using quantitative method was employed. Convenience sampling technique was used to select fifty data. Data collection was done through the use of structured and semi structured questionnaires. Sixty-six percent of respondents were unsure whether exclusive breastfeeding lowers a child's risk of allergic disease, obesity, type II diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol later in life. Eighty-two percent of respondents were unsure whether exclusive breastfeeding lowers the risk of otitis media, gastroenteritis, respiratory illness, sudden infant death syndrome, necrotizing enterocolitis, obesity, and high blood pressure. 60% were unsure whether exclusive breastfeeding enhances cognitive development and strengthens maternal-child bonds if exclusively breastfeeding reduces the severity or frequency of bacterial meningitis, bacteremia, diarrhea, and urinary tract infections; Eighty percent of respondents were unsure.More than half of those polled were aware of the following obstacles to exclusive breastfeeding: environmental and cultural influences, maternal employment, biological factors (such as breast engorgement, nipple problems, etc.), and inadequate information94% of respondents were unsure whether exclusive breastfeeding reduces obesity and ovarian cancer based on their beliefs and practices. Four-fifths of respondents were aware that the mother benefits emotionally from exclusive breastfeeding. 96% of respondents had no idea whether exclusively breastfeeding lowers the risk of developing breast cancer.The study recommended that nursing mothers practice exclusive breastfeeding for their infants up to six months of age, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other health organizations. It's important for nursing mothers to understand the proper technique for breastfeeding and seek help from lactation consultants or healthcare professionals if they are experiencing any difficulties. It's also important to ensure that they maintain a healthy and balanced diet to support their own health and the production of breast milk.Nursing mothers should feel supported and encouraged to breastfeed, as it is a natural and beneficial way to feed their infants. However, it's important to acknowledge that some mothers may not be able to breastfeed exclusively due to medical or personal reasons, and in those cases, appropriate alternatives should be sought with the guidance of a healthcare professional