Influence of Maternal Nutrition on the Exclusive Breastfeeding of Infants
Abstract of Influence of Maternal Nutrition on the Exclusive Breastfeeding of Infants
The researcher investigated the effects of maternal nutrition on the exclusive breastfeeding of infants in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. The purpose of the study was to find out the effects of maternal nutrition, socio-economic status, occupation, and perception on the exclusive breastfeeding of infants in Egor Local Government Area. To guide the study, four research questions were asked namely; what are the effects of maternal nutrition on the exclusive breastfeeding of infants? What are the relationship between maternal socio-economic status and the practice of exclusive breastfeeding? What are the effects of maternal occupation on the actualization of exclusive breastfeeding? What is the influence of maternal perception on the exclusive breastfeeding of infants?The findings revealed that maternal nutrition had insignificant effect on exclusive breastfeeding. That maternal health status was a huge socio-economic hindrance to the practice of exclusive breast feeding. That provision of baby friendly facilities at place of work for mothers to breastfeed their baby was an important occupational factor. That giving of water and the belief that exclusive breastfeeding makes the breast become flabby and unattractive were perception held by nursing mothers. Based on these, it was concluded that maternal nutrition does not affect practice of exclusive breastfeeding in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State.Some recommendations were made such that all hands should be on deck to increase the uptake of exclusive breastfeeding of infants, government and private enterprises should provide baby friendly facilities at their place of work for mothers to breastfeed their baby exclusively, maternal health status should be paramount to everyone as the health of their infant is tied to the mother.