Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude on Exclusive Breastfeeding Practices among Mothers in Ibadan North Local Government Area

Abstract

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is vital for infant health, yet its practice remains suboptimal
in many settings. This study examined the knowledge, attitudes, practices, and the
influence of spousal support on EBF among mothers in Ibadan North, Oyo State, Nigeria.
A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 406 breastfeeding mothers aged
15-49 with infants aged 0-6 months, recruited from three Primary Healthcare Centers. Data
were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed with SPSS version 21,
employing descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, logistic regression, and multiple
regression analysis. Awareness of EBF was high (93.8%), largely influenced by healthcare
providers (66.7%). Positive attitudes toward EBF were reported by 73.2% of mothers,
though adherence was lower (64.3%), hindered by barriers such as cultural beliefs (24.4%)
and public discomfort (33.6%). Spousal support was underutilized; only 40.1% of mothers
received support, predominantly financial (52.2%), while emotional support was least
available (71.4% lacked it). Socio-demographic factors such as age (p = 0.001), marital
status (p = 0.000), education (p = 0.003), and income (p = 0.001) were significantly
associated with attitudes and knowledge. Logistic regression revealed that knowledge (OR
= 3.338, p = 0.000) and attitudes (OR = 2.237, p = 0.000) significantly influenced EBF,
while practices did not. Attitudes (p = 0.008) and spousal support (p = 0.050) were
identified as significant predictors of EBF outcomes. Enhancing EBF rates requires spousal
involvement, culturally sensitive public health campaigns, and stronger community and
workplace support systems. Future studies should explore the impact of different spousal
support types and digital media on breastfeeding practices.