Assessment of Exclusive Breastfeeding Among Working Mothers in Tertiary Institutions (A Case Study of Imo State)

Globally, the practice of exclusive breastfeeding has been recognized as an important public health strategy for reducing infant and child morbidity and mortality. While studies have shown that many newborns in Nigeria are still fed with something other than breast milk despite the numerous health benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, there is little information on why the practice of exclusive breastfeeding is low among the educated. This study therefore assessed the practices of exclusive breastfeeding among working mothers in tertiary institutions in Imo State. Mixed research design and multi-stage sampling method were used for this study. For the quantitative data, 912 copies of questionnaire were administered and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics while 20 in-depth interviews were conducted for the qualitative data and analyzed using content analysis method. It was found that spouse educational level is positively correlated with practice of exclusive breastfeeding. Short duration of maternity leave and inconvenient working environment were major factors that undermine exclusive breastfeeding practice among working mothers. In conclusion, while exclusive breastfeeding awareness is high, many working mothers do not practice it. Consequently, employers should increase paid maternity leave to minimum of six months and make work environment to be conducive for breastfeeding mothers and their babies.