Perceptions and Practices of Breastfeeding Among Postnatal Women A Case Study of Abi Local government Area of Cross River State Nigeria

Perceptions and Practices of Breastfeeding Among Postnatal Women

Project / Seminar Material
Reference ID: PS-26270-TM

DEDICATION

This research material titled “Perceptions and Practices of Breastfeeding Among Postnatal Women” is dedicated to God for his enabling grace, and to all computer enthusiasts who contributed to make life a pleasant experience during my research documentation.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I extend my sincere gratitude to all those who contributed to the completion of this project. Special thanks to my Supervisor (Name of your Supervisor), the Head of Department (Name of your HOD), the Lecturers in the department of Midwifery, Book Authors and Profound Scholars of existing or related project material on “Perceptions and Practices of Breastfeeding Among Postnatal Women” for their invaluable guidance, support, and expertise throughout the journey.

I am also grateful to your study area (mention any funding organizations, if applicable) for their financial assistance. This research would not have been possible without the encouragement and assistance of some stakeholders (mention any mentors, teachers, or colleagues). Additionally, I would like to acknowledge the understanding and patience of my family and friends during this endeavor. Your unwavering support has been a constant source of motivation. Thank you all for being part of this meaningful endeavor.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PRELIMINARY PAGES

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

    CHAPTER TWO

    LITERATURE REVIEW

    • 2.1 Introduction
    • 2.2 Conceptual Review
    • 2.3 Theoretical Framework
    • ⋮
    • 2.4 Empirical Studies

    CHAPTER THREE

    RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

    • 3.1 Introduction
    • 3.2 Research Design
    • 3.3 Population of Study
    • 3.4 Sampling and Sampling Technique
    • 3.5 Validation of Research Instrument
    • 3.6 Method of Data Collection
    • 3.7 Method of Data Analysis
    • 3.8 Questionnaire Administration
    • 3.9 Ethical Consideration
    • 3.10 Statistical Analysis

    CHAPTER FOUR

    DATA ANALYSIS, RESULT AND DISCUSSION

    • 4.1 Introduction
    • 4.2 Presentation and Analysis of Data
    • 4.3 Re-statement of Research Questions
    • 4.4 Test of Hypotheses
    • 4.5 Discussion of Findings

    CHAPTER FIVE

    SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

    • 5.1 Introduction
    • 5.2 Summary of Findings
    • 5.3 Conclusion
    • 5.4 Recommendation
    • 5.5 Suggestion for Further Study

    REFERENCES

    APPENDIX A - “QUESTIONNAIRE”

    ABSTRACT

    The study was carried out to investigate the Perceptions and Practices of Breastfeeding Among Postnatal Women, Nigeria. The data was collected using close-ended questionnaire. 500 questionnaires were distributed to nursing mothers who visited antenatal clinics in the randomly selected hospitals, from which 455 were duly completed and returned. Frequencies of percentages and cross tabulation statistics were used to answer research questions. Associations between demographic determinants and breastfeeding practices were analyzed using Chi-square statistics at alpha level of 0.05 to test the formulated hypotheses.

    The study indicated high (99.8%) prevalence of breastfeeding among postnatal women, out of which 83.5% exclusively breastfed for up to 4-6 months. Only 16.5% however supplemented breastfeeding. The findings of the study revealed that; mother's age significantly influenced the practice of exclusive and non-exclusive breastfeeding of babies, indicating high exclusive breastfeeding among mothers of 25years and above, and low exclusive breastfeeding among younger mothers of 19 years and below. The results further showed that, mother's level of education significantly influenced the practice of exclusive and non-exclusive breastfeeding of babies, indicating high exclusive breastfeeding practice among literate mothers with at least secondary education. Those with low educational attainment had poor or low practice of exclusive breastfeeding.

    Based on the results of this study, the following conclusions are drawn: Mother's age influence the practice of exclusive and non-exclusive breastfeeding of babies. Mother's level of education influenced the practice of exclusive and non-exclusive breastfeeding of babies in Cross River State. The researcher recommended that public health campaigns should be launched to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding and dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding infant feeding. Also, healthcare providers should prioritize the integration of breastfeeding education and support services into routine prenatal and postnatal care.

    Perceptions and Practices of Breastfeeding Among Postnatal Women (A Case Study of Abi Local government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria)

    CHAPTER ONE

    1.1 Introduction

    Breast feeding which is the act of feeding babies with breast milk. This is a universal cultural practice among human species of all races. However, there are commonly observable variations in the frequency and exclusiveness of application of breast milk in the feeding of babies. Nurses play a major role in the promotion and implementation of Primary Health care (Paho, 2021). Breastfeeding is a fundamental aspect of maternal and infant health, yet its practice and perception among postnatal women vary significantly across cultures and societies. Understanding these variations is essential for designing effective interventions to promote breastfeeding and improve maternal and child health outcomes.

    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

    Breastfeeding is not only a natural process but also a critical determinant of infant health and development. Despite its recognized benefits, global breastfeeding rates remain suboptimal, with significant variations observed across regions and communities. Understanding the underlying factors influencing breastfeeding perceptions and practices among postnatal women is essential for designing effective interventions to promote breastfeeding initiation, duration, and exclusivity. Research suggests that socio-cultural norms, healthcare practices, maternal knowledge and beliefs, workplace support, and marketing influences play significant roles in shaping breastfeeding behaviors. However, there is a need for further exploration of these factors within diverse socio-cultural contexts to develop targeted strategies that address the specific challenges faced by postnatal women.

    The World Health Organization WHO (2001) received the optional duration of EBF to six months of life. The second type of breastfeeding, predominant breastfeeding (PBF), on the other hand, implies that the infants predominant source of nourishment is breast milk. The infant in this type receives in addition of breast milk, water and water based drinks (WHO 2001). Complimentary breastfeeding (CBF) or mixed feeding occurs where factory produced baby formula is the primary source of nourishment for the infant, the breast milk given occasionally. This practice offers mother chance to attend to their daily activities while nannies and house helps attend to babies: This present study was however concerned with exclusive breastfeeding.

    Promotion of breastfeeding, particularly EBF, has been the focus of many public health and nutrition programmes and activities in recent years. Thus a joint World health Organization/ united Nations children’s fund (WHO/UNICEF) meeting on infant and young child feeding was held in Genera in 1979 and the emphasis was on breast feeding. In 1981 The combined force of the W.H.O and UNICEF produced the W.H.O international code of marketing of breast milk substitute. The main aim of the code obviously was to safeguard the practice of breast feeding. To enhance breastfeeding practices, WHO launched the baby friendly hospital initiative in 1992 as a primary intervention strategy for promoting and strengthening national health systems. The initiative has been implemented in 138 countries (including Nigeria) and the number of hospitals world wide designated baby friendly has risen from 6,300 in 1995 to nearly 40,000 by mid 2008 (WHO, 2009).

    This, of course, could be the mother-in-law, father-in-law, or any of the extended family members who is close by. in the urban area, the nuclear family predominates and the decision to adopt breastfeeding will be only between the woman and her husband. Apart from this, the mother in the urban area may have to go to school or work which will take her out of the house regularly. This may have an impact on adoption of EBF, since the mother is likely not going to school with her baby and may not have opportunity to comeback and breastfeed the baby when necessary.

    Occupation of the mother places the mother in a social class. The mother may tend to follow what is fashionable or acceptable within the social class in which she be long (Wanmani and Tumwine, 2005). These dwindling attitudes regarding the practice of exclusive and non-exclusive breastfeeding have been attributed to several socio-economic, cultural and socio-demographic factors as it affects the development of children. Thus, this research project purposed to investigate the perceptions and practices of breastfeeding among postnatal women, Nigeria.

    1.3 Statement of Problem

    Investigation revealed that postnatal women often face barriers such as limited access to lactation support services, inadequate workplace accommodations, and societal stigma, which hinder their ability to initiate and sustain breastfeeding. Also, healthcare provider attitudes and practices can significantly influence breastfeeding outcomes. Issues such as insufficient breastfeeding education during prenatal care, inappropriate supplementation practices, and limited postnatal support can undermine breastfeeding initiation and continuation.

    Furthermore, aggressive marketing of breast milk substitutes and misinformation disseminated through media channels can undermine breastfeeding efforts. Understanding the impact of marketing strategies on maternal decision-making is crucial for promoting breastfeeding as the optimal feeding choice for infants. Addressing these problems requires a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted factors influencing breastfeeding perceptions and practices among postnatal women.

    1.4 Aim and Objectives of the Study

    The aim of the study is to investigate the perceptions and practices of breastfeeding among postnatal women. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows to:

    1. Identify barriers faced by postnatal women in initiating and sustaining breastfeeding, as well as factors that facilitate successful breastfeeding outcomes;
    2. Investigate how cultural norms and beliefs influence perceptions and practices of breastfeeding among postnatal women;
    3. Evaluate the role of healthcare services and support systems in facilitating or hindering breastfeeding practices;
    4. Examine the influence of marketing strategies for breast milk substitutes and infant feeding products on maternal decision-making regarding breastfeeding; and
    5. Assess postnatal women’s knowledge about the benefits of breastfeeding, their beliefs surrounding infant feeding, and the impact of these factors on breastfeeding practices.

    1.5 Research Questions

    This study sought to provide answers to the following specific research questions:

    • Do the breastfeeding mothers know how important the exclusive breastfeeding is and how to do it?
    • Do they have confidence and where do they turn to when they face difficulty?
    • Are there barriers faced by postnatal women in initiating and sustaining breastfeeding, as well as factors that facilitate successful breastfeeding outcomes?
    • What are the cultural norms and beliefs influence perceptions and practices of breastfeeding among postnatal women?
    • What is the influence of marketing strategies for breast milk substitutes and infant feeding products on maternal decision-making regarding breastfeeding?
    • What are the role of healthcare services and support systems in facilitating or hindering breastfeeding practices?
    • What is the postnatal women’s knowledge about the benefits of breastfeeding, their beliefs surrounding infant feeding, and the impact of these factors on breastfeeding practices?

    1.6 Significance of Study

    Breastfeeding plays a crucial role in maternal and child health, yet its practice is influenced by a myriad of factors that vary across different socio-cultural contexts. Understanding the perceptions and practices of breastfeeding among postnatal women is of paramount importance for several reasons:

    1. Maternal and Child Health: Breastfeeding provides numerous health benefits for both mothers and infants, including reduced risk of infections, improved cognitive development, and lower rates of chronic diseases. Investigating factors that affect breastfeeding practices can contribute to improving maternal and child health outcomes.
    2. Public Health Policy: Findings from this study can inform the development of evidence-based public health policies and interventions aimed at promoting breastfeeding. By identifying barriers and facilitators to breastfeeding initiation and continuation, policymakers can implement targeted strategies to create supportive environments for postnatal women.
    3. Healthcare Practices: Understanding the role of healthcare services and support systems in facilitating breastfeeding is crucial for improving the quality of maternal and infant healthcare. Healthcare providers can use insights from this study to enhance breastfeeding education, counseling, and support services for postnatal women.
    4. Cultural Sensitivity: Recognizing the influence of cultural norms and beliefs on breastfeeding practices is essential for providing culturally sensitive care to diverse populations. Tailoring interventions to address cultural barriers and leverage cultural strengths can help improve breastfeeding rates among postnatal women from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
    5. Economic Impact: Breastfeeding has significant economic implications, including reduced healthcare costs, improved productivity, and decreased environmental impact. Promoting breastfeeding can lead to substantial cost savings for healthcare systems and society as a whole.

    1.7 Scope of Study

    This scope of this research is focused on the Perceptions and Practices of Breastfeeding among Postnatal Women using Abi Local government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria as a case study.

    1.8 Limitations of the Study

    During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:

    1. 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.
    2. 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 Operational Definition of Terms

    Breastfeeding:

    It is the act of feeding an infant with breast milk, providing essential nutrients and antibodies for optimal growth and development.

    Postnatal Women:

    Women who have recently given birth and are in the period following childbirth, commonly referred to as the postpartum period.

    Perceptions:

    It is the beliefs, attitudes, and subjective understandings that individuals hold about breastfeeding, including cultural, social, and personal interpretations.

    Practices:

    The behaviors and actions related to breastfeeding, encompassing initiation, duration, exclusivity, and supplementation with breast milk substitutes.

    …

    CHAPTER TWO

    2.0 Literature Review

    2.1 Introduction

    This chapter focuses on the review of related literature. A literature review includes the current knowledge as well as theoretical and methodological contributions to a particular topic. It documents the state of the art with respect to the topic you are writing. It surveys the literature in the topic selected. In this research work the literature review includes the …

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