Prevalence and Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding and Complementary Feeding Among Working Mothers in Kano Municipal, Nigeria
Keywords:
Exclusive breastfeeding; Complementary feeding; Working mothers; Infant feeding practices; Determinants; Kano NigeriaAbstract
Background:
Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and appropriate complementary feeding are essential interventions for improving infant survival, growth, and development. Despite the well-documented benefits of optimal infant feeding practices, many working mothers face challenges in maintaining exclusive breastfeeding and initiating complementary feeding at the recommended time. Workplace constraints, cultural beliefs, and family influence often interfere with recommended infant feeding practices in many low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria.
Objective:
This study assessed the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices and identified factors associated with these practices among working mothers in Kano Municipal Local Government Area, Kano State, Nigeria.
Methods:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 325 working mothers with children aged 0–24 months in Kano Municipal. A multistage sampling technique was used to select respondents. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, while chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression were performed to identify factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Results:
The prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding for six months was 52.3%, while only 27.1% of mothers introduced complementary feeding at the recommended age of six months. Breastfeeding breaks at the workplace (p = 0.029), community encouragement (p = 0.001), family support (p = 0.001), absence of discouraging traditional beliefs (p < 0.001), cultural influences (p = 0.026), advice from elders (p < 0.001), and attendance at breastfeeding counselling sessions (p = 0.013) were significantly associated with exclusive breastfeeding. Multivariate logistic regression showed that availability of breastfeeding breaks at work, community and family support, traditional beliefs, elder advice, and breastfeeding counselling were significant predictors of exclusive breastfeeding.
Conclusion:
Exclusive breastfeeding prevalence among working mothers in Kano Municipal was moderate; however, appropriate complementary feeding practices remained low. Workplace support, cultural beliefs, and family influence significantly affect breastfeeding practices. Strengthening workplace policies, promoting breastfeeding education, and enhancing family and community support systems are necessary to improve optimal infant feeding practices among working mothers.
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