Knowledge and Practice of Exclusive Breastfeeding among Working-Class Mothers in Rumuigbo Community, Obio Akpo Local Government Area of Rivers State

Abstract

This study was carried out in Rumuigbo Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State on the knowledge and practice of Exclusive Breastfeeding by Working class mothers. Objectives of the study were to determine if the working class mothers in Rumuigbo community know the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, to ascertain if the nature of their jobs limits the practice of exclusive breastfeeding by working-class mothers, to ascertain the level of practice of exclusive breastfeeding and to ascertain the perception of working-class mothers in Rumuigbo community towards the practice of exclusive breastfeeding. The objectives were translated into research questions. One null hypothesis was formulated, there will be no significant relationship between knowledge and practice of exclusive breastfeeding by working-class mothers in Rumuigbo community. Literature were reviewed in line with the objectives of the study. Purposive random sampling technique was used to select the sample of 100 nursing mothers from the target population of 200. The instrument used for the study was a self-constructed questionnaire which consisted of two (2) different sections. Section “A” contains the personal data of respondents and Section B contained questions constructed to elicit answers on the research variable. Data were obtained from 85 respondents out of the sample size of 100. The research questions and hypothesis formulated revealed the information needed. Percentages, tables and figures were used to present the findings of the research while the chi-square (X²) statistical tool was used to test the hypothesis at alpha level of 0.05% significance. It was discovered that the majority of working-class mothers have a good knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding but do not practice it effectively. Based on the findings, the following recommendations were made: health workers especially nurses and midwives in union with Government and Organizations should map out strategies to support, promote and encourage working-class mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding in our society. Members of the families of working-class mothers should support and assist in feeding infants with expressed milk when the mothers are away. The need for further studies such as: the effectiveness of exclusive breastfeeding in the reduction of infantile infections was also suggested.