Exclusive breastfeeding: Update on the knowledge and practices of care providers and mothers in the Maluku I and Lemba Health Zones.

Abstract

Background Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is the practice of feeding newborns and infants only breast milk over six months of age. A child who is not exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months of life is exposed to infectious diseases such as diarrhea and is at high risk of developing malnutrition. According to WHO and UNICEF recommendations, EBF should be practised by every woman with an infant under six months of age. The percentage of EBF practice in the Lemba health zone is low in contrast to Maluku I. This study aim to assess the current knowledge and practices regarding EBF among care providers and mothers in Maluku I and Lemba Health Zones. Methods : Aqualitative case study approach was used to highlight the knowledge and practice of cares providers and in-depth interviews were used to collect data, which were analyzed using Atlas-ti V7 software. Results : The majority of our respondents had a superficial knowledge of EBF and knew the importance of this, but healthcare providers hadn't received appropriate training on EBF. A significant proportion of healthcare providers don't discuss EBF with women during medical appointments and visits. Culture, surroundings, spouse are all factors influencing the non-adherence of these women to the practice of EBF Conclusion : Providers aren't well trained and don't talk enough to women about EBF; work, culture, advertising of artificial milk on the media and the entourage slow down women in Lemba from practicing EBF. This study will help to improve the health of breast-feeding children.