Educational Attainment and Cultural Beliefs as Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding Practice Among Working Nursing Mothers in Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District

Abstract

This study examines the influence of educational attainment and cultural beliefs on the practice of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) among working nursing mothers attending immunization clinics in the Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District. A descriptive survey design was employed, and 200 working nursing mothers were selected using a multi-stage sampling procedure from general hospitals within the district. Data were collected through a validated, researcher-developed questionnaire titled Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Exclusive Breastfeeding Questionnaire (KAPEBQ), with reliability coefficients ranging from 0.71 to 0.88. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics and inferential tests at a 0.05 significance level. The findings indicated that educational attainment significantly influenced mothers' likelihood of practicing EBF, with higher-educated mothers showing better adherence to recommended practices. Cultural beliefs also played a significant role in breastfeeding decisions, particularly those related to colostrum disposal, pre-lacteal feeding, and family-driven feeding norms. The study concludes that both educational level and cultural beliefs are critical factors shaping EBF behavior among working mothers. It recommends strengthening community-based health education, offering culturally sensitive breastfeeding counseling, and implementing workplace support systems to improve EBF uptake in the district.