Exclusive breastfeeding intention and its predictors among pregnant women at Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract

Background
WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for the first six months of life, during which no other foods or liquids, including water, should be provided. Despite the known benefits of breastfeeding and continued efforts to improve optimal practices, breastfeeding practices remain suboptimal globally and in Nigeria.
Objective
This study aimed to determine EBF intention and its predictors among pregnant women at Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital, Ibadan.
Methods
A cross-sectional study involving 316 pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic of Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital, Ibadan, was conducted using a systematic sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, scripted in the KoboCollect application, and analysed with SPSS version 22. Chi-square and binary logistic regression were performed to assess relationships among variables, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results
Over half of the respondents (59.2%) had good knowledge of EBF; 81.3% had a positive attitude towards breastfeeding; and 83.5% had good intentions towards breastfeeding. Respondents who had poor knowledge of EBF were more likely to have poor intention of EBF compared to those with good knowledge (AOR=5.543, CI= 2.503-12.272, P= 0.000).
Conclusions
Breastfeeding intention was significantly associated with educational attainment, knowledge, and attitude towards EBF. This should be considered when planning further interventions to promote EBF at Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital, Ibadan.