Exploring mother's perception regarding exclusive breastfeeding (EBF)

Abstract

This qualitative study sought to understand or explore how mothers perceive exclusive breastfeeding (EBF). The study also aimed to explore the knowledge, attitude, and EBF practices of mothers and explore factors or issues influencing EBF. The study has revealed various difficulties mothers encounter when practicing EBF. The study results can be used to gain an understanding of how mother’s knowledge gap influences EBF practice and develop a negative attitude regarding EBF practices. Family, societal, and personal factors influence the practice of EBF, and the mother's physical and mental health issues need to be addressed during this period so that they continue the practice of EBF and the positive perception developed with family and societal support. Knowledge about EBF needs to be circulated properly so that mothers can follow accordingly. EBF practice is decreasing and the need for EBF practice is still mostly under-recognized, the study indicates that mothers have very little or no understanding regarding EBF, and that influences the practice of EBF. Family support and engagement of fathers are very important for practicing and sustaining EBF. To build a positive attitude and perception with an enabling environment for mothers to practice EBF certain recommendations made by this study may catch the attention of policy makers.