1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of Study
Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is a key public health strategy for improving infant health and reducing mortality. The practice involves feeding an infant only breast milk for the first six months, with no other liquids or solids (WHO, 2021). This approach supports optimal growth and development by providing essential nutrients and antibodies that protect infants from infections and chronic diseases (Gartner et al., 2005). Despite the well-documented benefits, the global prevalence of EBF remains below the recommended targets. According to recent data, only about 40% of infants under six months are exclusively breastfed worldwide, with significant disparities observed between and within countries (UNICEF, 2022). In many low- and middle-income countries, cultural beliefs, socioeconomic factors, and inadequate support systems contribute to low rates of EBF (Pérez-Escamilla et al., 2012).
Pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) clinics are a critical group for addressing breastfeeding practices. Antenatal care presents a prime opportunity for healthcare providers to educate expectant mothers about the benefits of EBF and to address any concerns or barriers they might face (Ferguson et al., 2016). However, the effectiveness of these educational efforts is often influenced by the women’s pre-existing attitudes towards breastfeeding, which can be shaped by cultural norms, social support, and personal beliefs (Morrow et al., 2017).
Studies have shown that positive attitudes towards breastfeeding are associated with higher rates of EBF, while negative attitudes or lack of support can lead to early cessation of breastfeeding (Kramer et al., 2001). Thus, understanding the attitudes and practices of pregnant women towards EBF is essential for developing targeted interventions that can improve breastfeeding rates and ultimately enhance maternal and infant health outcomes.
Exclusive breastfeeding is defined as feeding an infant only breast milk, without any additional food or water, for the first six months of life, except for oral rehydration salts, drops, and syrups (including vitamins, minerals, and medicines) (WHO, 2021). Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is widely recognized as a crucial practice for promoting infant health and development. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, emphasizing that it provides all the necessary nutrients and antibodies essential for an infant's optimal growth (WHO, 2021). Despite the known benefits, the rates of exclusive breastfeeding remain suboptimal in many regions, influenced by various factors including maternal attitudes and practices (Gartner et al., 2005).
Pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) clinics represent a critical population for promoting EBF. Antenatal care provides an opportunity for health professionals to educate expectant mothers about the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding and address any misconceptions or barriers they may face (Ferguson et al., 2016). The effectiveness of these educational interventions, however, depends significantly on the attitudes of pregnant women towards breastfeeding and their readiness to adopt recommended practices (Pérez-Escamilla et al., 2012).
Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the attitude and practice of exclusive breastfeeding among pregnant women attending antenatal care.
1.2 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that many women attending antenatal care clinics hold misconceptions about breastfeeding, influenced by cultural beliefs and misinformation. These misconceptions often result in negative attitudes towards exclusive breastfeeding, which can hinder their willingness to exclusively breastfeed (Pérez-Escamilla et al., 2012). Additionally, the level of support provided by healthcare professionals during ANC visits is inconsistent, impacting the effectiveness of breastfeeding education and counseling (Ferguson et al., 2016).
Socioeconomic factors also play a significant role in shaping breastfeeding practices. Women with limited access to resources, such as adequate maternal leave or breastfeeding support, often struggle to maintain EBF (Gartner et al., 2005). Moreover, societal pressures and workplace challenges further exacerbate the difficulties faced by these women in adhering to exclusive breastfeeding guidelines (Victora et al., 2016). Hence, it is against this backdrop that this study aims to evaluate the attitude and practice of exclusive breastfeeding among pregnant women attending antenatal care.
1.3 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to evaluate the attitude and practice of exclusive breastfeeding among pregnant women attending antenatal care. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To assess the current attitudes of pregnant women towards exclusive breastfeeding during their ANC visits.
- To evaluate the impact of antenatal education and counseling on the breastfeeding practices of the participants.
- To determine the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding practices among the population in the area under study.
- To identify factor that influence the adoption and maintenance of exclusive breastfeeding among pregnant women.
- To explore barriers and facilitators affecting exclusive breastfeeding as reported by pregnant women attending ANC clinics.
1.4 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What are the current attitudes of pregnant women towards exclusive breastfeeding while attending antenatal care (ANC) clinics?
- What is the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding practices among pregnant women attending ANC?
- What factors influence the adoption and maintenance of exclusive breastfeeding among pregnant women?
- How does antenatal education and counseling affect the breastfeeding practices of pregnant women?
- What barriers do pregnant women face in practicing exclusive breastfeeding, and what facilitators support their adherence to this practice?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
- H0: There is no significant relationship between the attitudes of pregnant women attending antenatal care and their practice of exclusive breastfeeding.
- H1: There is a significant relationship between the attitudes of pregnant women attending antenatal care and their practice of exclusive breastfeeding.
1.6 Significance of Study
The outcome realized from the research findings will be significant to the following stakeholders:
- The study will help healthcare providers understand the attitudes and challenges faced by pregnant women regarding exclusive breastfeeding, enabling them to offer more effective counseling and support during antenatal care.
- It will benefit policymakers by providing data that can inform the development of targeted programs and interventions aimed at improving exclusive breastfeeding practices in maternal and child health initiatives.
- The study will assist community health workers and breastfeeding advocates in identifying specific cultural and social barriers, allowing them to tailor their outreach efforts to better promote exclusive breastfeeding within their communities.
- Pregnant women attending antenatal care will gain from the improved support structures and educational programs that will arise from the findings, helping them to make informed decisions about exclusive breastfeeding.
- The study will contribute to academic research by adding to the existing body of knowledge on breastfeeding practices, serving as a reference for future studies in maternal and infant health.
1.7 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on the attitude and practice of exclusive breastfeeding among pregnant women attending antenatal care using PHC Anyigba, Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State as a case study as a case study.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, there were some problems encountered which stood as limitations to the research work. Some of the limitations include:
- Delays from respondents in filling out questionnaires or participating in interviews further extended the timeline of the research, resulting in constraints in completing the study within the intended period.
- Financial constraints were another limitation, as limited funding restricted the ability to conduct a more extensive study or reach a broader population of pregnant women attending antenatal care.
- Lastly, time constraints impacted the depth of the research, as the available time for conducting fieldwork, data analysis, and reporting was limited, affecting the overall comprehensiveness of the study.
1.9 Definition of Terms
Attitude: Attitude refers to the feelings, beliefs, or opinions held by pregnant women regarding exclusive breastfeeding, which may influence their decision to engage in this practice. It encompasses emotional, cognitive, and behavioral components that can affect how a person responds to certain situations (Eagly & Chaiken, 1993).
Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF): Exclusive breastfeeding is defined as feeding an infant only breast milk, without any additional food or water, for the first six months of life, except for oral rehydration salts, drops, and syrups (including vitamins, minerals, and medicines) (WHO, 2021).
Practice: in the context of this study, practice refers to the actual implementation or application of exclusive breastfeeding by pregnant women after birth, including adherence to the recommended six months of exclusive breastfeeding (Pérez-Escamilla et al., 2012).
Antenatal Care (ANC): Antenatal care refers to the routine medical care that pregnant women receive from healthcare providers to monitor and promote the health of both the mother and the fetus throughout pregnancy (WHO, 2020). This care includes educational components, such as information on breastfeeding practices.
Breastfeeding Education: Breastfeeding education involves structured learning activities provided to pregnant women during antenatal care, designed to inform them about the benefits and proper techniques of breastfeeding, as well as to address any concerns they may have about the process (Ferguson et al., 2016).
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