Barriers and Facilitators to Exclusive Breastfeeding and Complementary Feeding Among Working Mothers in Kano Municipal, Nigeria: A Qualitative Study
Keywords:
Exclusive breastfeeding; Complementary feeding; Working mothers; Infant feeding practices; Qualitative study; Nigeria.Abstract
Background:
Optimal infant feeding practices, including exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and timely introduction of complementary feeding, are essential for improving child survival, growth, and development. Despite global recommendations, adherence to optimal breastfeeding practices remains suboptimal in many low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. Working mothers often face unique structural and socio-cultural challenges that influence their ability to sustain recommended infant feeding practices. This study explored the experiences, barriers, and facilitators influencing exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices among working mothers in Kano Municipal Local Government Area of Kano State, Nigeria.
Methods:
A qualitative descriptive study was conducted using focus group discussions among working mothers with children aged 0–24 months residing in Kano Municipal LGA. Participants were recruited using purposive sampling to capture diverse occupational and socio-demographic backgrounds. Data were collected using a semi-structured discussion guide and analyzed using thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s six-phase approach. Measures to ensure trustworthiness included credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability.
Results:
Four major themes emerged from the analysis: workplace barriers to exclusive breastfeeding, cultural and family influence on infant feeding practices, maternal coping strategies for infant feeding, and facilitators of optimal infant feeding practices. Participants reported that long working hours, limited maternity leave, and absence of breastfeeding-friendly workplace environments hindered exclusive breastfeeding. Cultural beliefs and advice from elders also influenced early introduction of complementary foods. Despite these challenges, mothers adopted coping strategies such as expressing breast milk and relying on caregivers. Health education from healthcare providers and supportive family environments were identified as important facilitators of optimal infant feeding practices.
Conclusion:
Exclusive breastfeeding and appropriate complementary feeding practices among working mothers are shaped by complex interactions between workplace conditions, cultural beliefs, family dynamics, and health system support. Strengthening breastfeeding-friendly workplace policies, improving maternal health education, and promoting supportive family and community environments may enhance optimal infant feeding practices among working mothers.
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