An assessment of the breastfeeding practices in Momo division, North West region of Cameroon

ABSTRACT: Abstract The aim of this study was to assess maternal breastfeeding practices of children aged 0 to 24 months in Momo Division. It was also to identify the maternal sources of breastfeeding information and determine their impact on maternal breastfeeding decision in this division. Structured interviewer questionnaires were administered to 540 mothers. Among the 540 children included in the study, 77% of them received no prelacteal foods. Despite the fact that 47% of mothers initiated breastfeeding early, only 38% exclusively breastfed their infants for 6 months. Complementary feeding was introduced before the age of 6 months (59.5%). Few infants (2.4%) received complementary feeding later than 6 months. Only 3.1% of the children were breastfed up to two years or beyond. The most common source of breastfeeding information for the mothers is from the family, friends, and neighbors but information from healthcare professionals had the most influential effect on maternal breastfeeding decision. Although a few mothers in Momo Division followed the recommended breastfeeding practices, the breastfeeding practices in this division are generally suboptimal. The aim of this study was to assess the maternal breastfeeding practices of children aged 0–24 months, to identify the maternal sources of breastfeeding information, and to determine their impact on maternal breastfeeding decision in Momo Division. Although a few mothers in Momo Division followed the recommended breastfeeding practices, the breastfeeding practices in this division are generally suboptimal. The most common source of breastfeeding information for the mothers is from the family, friends, and neighbors, but information from healthcare professionals had the most influential effect on the maternal breastfeeding decision.

SUBMITTER: Nwachan Mirabelle B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7500771 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature