Internationale Zeitschrift für öffentliche Gesundheit und Sicherheit

Breastfeeding Practices among Mothers Living in Ede North Local Government, Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Omoge Adeyemi O, Akinduro Oluwaniyi P, Adejumobi Adejumoke O and Eweka Agnes O

Background: Breastfeeding is the feeding a baby with milk that is coming straight from the mother's breast. It provides the infant with the necessary nutrients they require for healthy growth and development. For an infants to live, grow and develop properly they need the right proportion of nutrients. Breast milk is copious in nutrients and anti-bodies and consists of the correct quantities of fat, sugar, water and protein. These nutrients are major requirements for the health and survival of the baby.

Objective: This study was carried out to have a clear understanding about the the breastfeeding practices among mothers in Ede, Osun State, Nigeria.

Methodology: 50 mothers living in Ede were randomly and systematically selected to participate in the study. Questionnaire containing two sections was used for data collection. Results were analyzed using SPSS version 21.

Results: The study revealed that 18 (36 %) of the respondents were aged 26-30 years, 45 (90%) were Islam, 49 (98%) were Yoruba, 42 (84%) were married, 16 (32%) were civil servants, 30 (60%) had tertiary education and 24 (48%) earned above 41,000. 30 (60%) strongly agree that they have heard of breastfeeding from hospital, maternity clinics, TBA, 34 (68%) strongly agree that breastfeeding a child for six months is good, 22 (44%) agree that breastfeeding is a good contraceptive method, 16 (32%), 22 (44%) strongly agree that breastfeeding promote mother-baby bonding, 18 (36%) strongly agree that breastfeeding has effect on care of family members and marital relationship, 16 (32%) agree that breastfeeding is a good way to decreases family expenses, 20 (40%) agree that breastfeeding prevent low weight in baby, 18 (36%) strongly agree that breastfeeding helps the uterus to return to its pre-pregnancy state quickly.

Conclusion: Breast milk remains the best and most guaranteed kind of nourishment for infants. The health benefits of breastfeeding to infants should not be underestimated. Breastfeeding is well known as the best source of food for infants. Health education programmes on the benefits of breastfeeding to the infant, mother, family and the community should be promoted.