Impact of maternal demographics on knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers in Ifelodun local government, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Breastfeeding remains the recommended feeding plan for infants however; several factors seem to affect its knowledge and practice. Objectives: This study aimed at investigating the impact of maternal demographics of age, educational status, religious affiliation and number of parities on knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers in Ifelodun Local government area, Nigeria. Methods: The study employed a descriptive survey method. A total of 206 nursing mothers in Ifelodun Local Government were selected through purposive and random sampling techniques. The participants responded to a researcher-designed questionnairetitled Knowledge of Exclusive Breastfeeding Questionnaire. The psychometric properties of the instrument were established. The data collected were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. For the demographic data, percentage was employed while chi-square statistical tool was employed to test the hypotheses at 0.05 significant level. Results: Nursing mothers in Ifelodun Local Government Area have high knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding (N=76.8%). Also, maternal demographics of age (X2= 25P=0.03), educational status (X2= 62.72; P=0.00), religious affiliation (X2= 11.01; P=0.01) and number of parity (X2= 84.01; P=0.02) have significant impact on mothers’ knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusions: Nursing mothers in Ifelodun Local Government Area, have knowledge of exclusive breast feeding especially those who are older, literate, Christian; and multi-parous. Maternal demographics should be considered when educating nursing mothers on exclusive breastfeeding. Keywords: Maternal demographics; exclusive breastfeeding; nursing mothers; Ifelodun local government area.