1.1 Introduction
Infant feeding practices play a critical role in the health and development of children. The decision of whether to breastfeed or formula feed is influenced by a variety of factors, including socio-economic status, cultural beliefs, availability of support, and health-related concerns. According to Rollins et al., (2016), many mothers face challenges that influence their feeding choices. Socio-economic factors, such as employment status and educational level, can impact a mother's ability to breastfeed. Mothers with higher educational attainment are more likely to initiate and sustain breastfeeding due to better knowledge and access to breastfeeding resources. In contrast, mothers from lower socio-economic backgrounds may encounter barriers such as lack of maternity leave, inadequate breastfeeding facilities at work, and limited access to lactation support (Rollins et al., 2016).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
In the mid-20th century, the medical community began to recognize the superior health benefits of breast milk over formula. This shift was driven by a growing body of scientific evidence highlighting the immunological, nutritional, and developmental advantages of breastfeeding. Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) started advocating for breastfeeding as the optimal infant feeding method (WHO, 2021). Several studies have highlighted the importance of socio-economic factors in shaping infant feeding practices. Mothers from higher socio-economic backgrounds often have better access to healthcare information and resources, which supports breastfeeding initiation and continuation. Conversely, those from lower socio-economic settings may face obstacles such as the need to return to work early, lack of breastfeeding-friendly environments, and limited access to lactation support services (Rollins et al., 2016). Education level is also a significant determinant, with higher education correlating with increased awareness and adherence to breastfeeding guidelines.
The choice of infant feeding methods is a crucial decision for mothers, with significant implications for the health and development of their children. Breastfeeding is universally recognized as the optimal method of infant feeding, offering unparalleled nutritional and immunological benefits. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond (WHO, 2021). Despite these recommendations, breastfeeding rates remain suboptimal globally, with substantial variations influenced by a myriad of factors.
Breastfeeding is widely recommended by health organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), due to its numerous health benefits for both infants and mothers. Breast milk provides essential nutrients, antibodies, and hormones that support the infant's growth and immune system development. Additionally, breastfeeding has been associated with a lower risk of certain infections, chronic conditions, and even improved cognitive development in children (WHO, 2021). During the Industrial Revolution, the introduction of women into the workforce and urbanization led to a decline in breastfeeding rates. The development of commercial infant formula in the late 19th and early 20th centuries provided a convenient alternative to breastfeeding. Initially, formula was marketed as a scientifically advanced and healthier option compared to breast milk, leading to its increased popularity (Stevens, Patrick, & Pickler, 2009).
Cultural beliefs and practices play a pivotal role in determining infant feeding choices. In some societies, formula feeding may be perceived as a modern and convenient alternative to breastfeeding, while in others, breastfeeding is seen as a traditional practice that is deeply embedded in cultural norms. The influence of family members, particularly older generations and spouses, can either encourage or dissuade mothers from breastfeeding. Cultural stigmas surrounding breastfeeding in public and misconceptions about breastfeeding can further complicate a mother's feeding decision (Rosenstock et al., 2019). Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the factors influencing the choice of infant feeding options among mothers attending maternal and child health clinics.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that mothers from lower socio-economic backgrounds often face greater challenges in breastfeeding due to the need to return to work early, lack of maternity leave, and inadequate workplace support for breastfeeding. These barriers can lead to early cessation of breastfeeding and increased reliance on formula feeding (Rosenstock et al., 2019).
Additionally, maternal and infant health conditions, such as mastitis, perceived insufficient milk supply, and chronic illnesses, can complicate breastfeeding. These health-related challenges often lead mothers to opt for formula feeding, which may not provide the same health benefits as breast milk (Stevens et al., 2009).
Furthermore, despite the global advocacy for exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, many mothers do not meet this recommendation. Factors such as employment constraints, and lack of breastfeeding support contribute to low breastfeeding rates (Rollins et al., 2016). Hence, it is against this backdrop that this study aims to explore these issues among mothers attending maternal and child health clinics.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to to identify and analyze the factors influencing the choice of infant feeding options among mothers attending maternal and child health clinics. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To determine the level of awareness and understanding of the benefits of breastfeeding and effective breastfeeding practices among mothers;
- To assess the perceived adequacy of milk supply and other health-related concerns that influence feeding options;
- To analyze the impact of maternal and infant health conditions on the decision to breastfeed or formula feed; and
- To suggest strategies for enhancing support systems and educational programs to promote optimal infant feeding practices.
1.5 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 is the level of awareness and understanding of the benefits of breastfeeding and effective breastfeeding practices among mothers?
- What is the perceived adequacy of milk supply and other health-related concerns that influence feeding options?
- What is the impact of maternal and infant health conditions on the decision to breastfeed or formula feed?
- What are the strategies for enhancing support systems and educational programs to promote optimal infant feeding practices?
1.6 Significance of Study
The findings of this study will inform healthcare providers and policymakers about the specific barriers and facilitators that mothers face in their feeding decisions. By identifying these factors, targeted interventions can be developed to address the challenges, promoting breastfeeding and improving overall infant health outcomes.
Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of socio-economic influences, such as income level, employment status, and educational attainment, in shaping infant feeding practices. Understanding these influences helps in designing supportive policies and programs, such as extended maternity leave and workplace breastfeeding accommodations, which are essential for enabling mothers to breastfeed successfully.
Furthermore, the study addresses the gaps in knowledge and education regarding breastfeeding and infant feeding practices. By identifying educational needs and misconceptions, the research supports the development of comprehensive educational programs that empower mothers with accurate information and practical skills to make optimal feeding decisions.
Finally, the findings of this research study will be of immense benefit to other researchers who intend to know more on this topic and can also be used by non-researchers to build more on their work. This study contributes to knowledge and could serve as a guide for other work or study.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The scope of this research is focused on the factors influencing the choice of infant feeding options among mothers attending maternal and child health clinics in Abi is a Local Government Area in Cross River State.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
1.9 Definition of Terms
Breastfeeding:
It refers to the practice of feeding an infant with milk directly from the mother's breast. Breastfeeding is recommended as the optimal source of nutrition for infants, providing essential nutrients and antibodies that promote health and development (World Health Organization, 2021).
Exclusive Breastfeeding:
Feeding infants only breast milk, with no additional food or drink, not even water, for the first six months of life. This practice is advocated for its numerous health benefits for both the infant and the mother (World Health Organization, 2021).
Formula Feeding:
The practice of feeding an infant with commercially prepared infant formula as a substitute for or complement to breast milk. Infant formula is designed to mimic the nutritional composition of breast milk but does not provide the same immunological benefits (Stevens, Patrick, & Pickler, 2009).
Socio-Economic Status (SES):
It is a composite measure that typically includes indicators of income, educational attainment, and occupation. SES influences access to resources, healthcare, and overall living conditions, which can impact infant feeding choices (Rollins et al., 2016).
Maternal and Child Health Clinics:
Healthcare facilities that provide services related to the health and well-being of mothers and their children, including prenatal care, postnatal care, immunizations, and nutritional counseling. These clinics play a crucial role in supporting infant feeding practices (Rosenstock et al., 2019).
Lactation Consultant:
It is a healthcare professional who specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding. Lactation consultants provide education, and problem-solving assistance to mothers to help them successfully breastfeed their infants (Victora et al., 2016).
Support Systems:
It refers to the networks of individuals and organizations that provide emotional, informational, and practical support to mothers. This includes family members, healthcare providers, peer support groups, and community resources that assist mothers in making and sustaining infant feeding choices (Victora et al., 2016).
Perceived Insufficient Milk Supply (PIMS):
A common concern among breastfeeding mothers where they believe they are not producing enough milk to meet their infant's needs. This perception, whether accurate or not, can lead to early cessation of breastfeeding and increased reliance on formula feeding (Rollins et al., 2016).
