A Qualitative Exploration of the Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF) Practices in Wajir County, Kenya
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Date
2020
Authors
Mohamed, Mahat Jimale
Ochola, Sophie
Owino, Victor O.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
BioMed Central
Abstract
Background: The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. A
qualitative study was conducted to assess the factors that influence the practice of exclusive breastfeeding
amongst mothers attending Wajir County Hospital, Kenya.
Method: This study was part of a cross-sectional study to compare the exclusive breastfeeding rates amongst
primiparous and multiparous mothers with infants under 6 months old attending Wajir County Hospital. Focus
group discussions and key informant interviews were conducted to collect information on exclusive breastfeeding
and related factors. Four focus group discussions were conducted with mothers who exclusively breastfed and the
same number with mothers who did not exclusively breastfeed their babies. Key informant interviews were
conducted with nine healthcare providers. The data were transcribed, and a content analysis identified common
themes and inferences.
Results: The exclusive breastfeeding rate among the mothers in the larger study was 45.5%. There was no disparity
between the practice of exclusive breastfeeding between primiparous and multiparous mothers. Despite the high
knowledge and positive attitudes towards exclusive breastfeeding of most mothers, the practice of exclusive
breastfeeding was unsatisfactory. The major hindrances identified were cultural barriers propagated by mothers-inlaw
and traditional birth attendants; the belief that babies cannot live without water; and a few unsupportive health
workers. The uptake of exclusive breastfeeding was enhanced by Islamic teaching on breastfeeding, education from
a few supportive healthcare providers; support from husbands; and positive deviance among some lactating
mothers who practiced exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusions: Deeply rooted cultural factors were the major hindrance to the practice of exclusive breastfeeding.
Most of the mothers did not practice exclusive breastfeeding, despite the majority being knowledgeable and
having positive attitudes towards the practice. The influence of mother-in-law’s and traditional birth assistants were
major barriers. Strengthening the Community Health Strategy through training traditional birth attendants on Infant
Young Child Nutrition practices, designing mechanisms linking traditional birth assistants to existing health facilities
for support, and capacity building and monitoring is critical in promoting exclusive breastfeeding. Behavior change
and communication through multiple channels within the community should be utilized to maximize promotion of
exclusive breastfeeding among all stakeholders.
Keywords: Exclusive breastfeeding, Primiparous mothers, Multiparous mothers, Determinants, Factors influencing
exclusive breastfeeding, Kenya
Description
A research article published in International Breastfeeding Journal
Keywords
Exclusive breastfeeding, Primiparous mothers, Multiparous mothers, Determinants, Factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding, Kenya
Citation
Mohamed, M. J., Ochola, S., & Owino, V. O. (2020). A Qualitative Exploration of the Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF) Practices in Wajir County, Kenya. International Breastfeeding Journal, 15, 1-10.