Knowledge, attitude, and practices of exclusive breastfeeding among female traders in two market areas in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Breastmilk is essential for infants' growth and development. Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) alone in the first 6months of life is highly recommended for positive outcomes. Less than 30% of children under 6months in Nigeria are exclusively breastfed. Knowledge, attitude, and, practice (KAP) of breastfeeding varies among working-class-women, however, there is limited information on KAP among female traders.

Objective: This study determined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of EBF among female traders in two markets in Ibadan.

Methodology: Female traders (n=150) were randomly selected from each market. Interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to obtain data on knowledge, attitude, practice, factors, and challenges encountered during EBF. Data were analyzed using SPSSv24.0.

Results: Fewer respondents in Oje (79.3%) compared with Oja-oba (94.7%) had heard about EBF while a higher percentage of respondents from Oje (73.3%) identified that EBF should be practiced for 6 months than in Oja-Oba (41.3%). Respondents from both markets had positive attitudes toward EBF. EBF practice was higher in Oje (56.7%) compared with Oja-Oba (49.3%). Majority (66.0%) in Oja-oba practiced prelacteal feeding prior to EBF. Worry and stress, breast inflammation, sore or cracked nipples were the most commonly reported challenges to EBF.

Conclusion: EBF prevalence in both markets was higher than the Nigerian and global figures but much lower than in the developed nations. Further sensitization of female traders on the importance of EBF and early initiation is required to further improve outcomes.