KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE OF EXCLUSIVE BREASTFEEDING AMONG NURSING MOTHERS IN IKEJI ARAKEJI PRIMARY HEALTH CENTER, OSUN STATE.

ABSTRACT Exclusive breastfeeding provides optimal nutrition and health benefits for infants, yet many barriers impede its practice. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, practices, and challenges related to exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers in Ikeji Arakeji health center,Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using questionnaires administered to 100 nursing mothers. Data was collected on demographics, knowledge of breastfeeding benefits, influence of cultural beliefs, healthcare support accessed, breastfeeding duration, reasons for stopping, and challenges faced. Most respondents demonstrated good knowledge of breastfeeding benefits like nutrition, infection prevention, and bonding (90%, 85%, 95% respectively). However, knowledge of cognitive development benefits was lower (75%). Cultural beliefs were acknowledged as influencing practices (55%), though direct societal pressure was minimal (40%). Healthcare support gaps included inconsistent education (35%), limited lactation services (60%), and lack of breastfeeding facilities (70%). The most common breastfeeding duration was 3-6 months (40%), with returning to work/school being the primary reason for stopping (35%). Prevalent challenges included sore nipples (30%), latching difficulties (25%), and perceived milk insufficiency (18%). Overall dissatisfaction with breastfeeding support was high (30%). In conclusion While breastfeeding knowledge was generally good, the findings highlight a need for targeted education on specific benefits, understanding cultural influences, improving healthcare system support, facilitating workplace accommodations, and enhancing skilled lactation counseling to enable optimal exclusive breastfeeding practices. Word count: 227 Keywords: Exclusive breastfeeding, Nursing mothers ,Knowledge, Cultural beliefs, Healthcare support, Breastfeeding practices