PERCEIVED BARRIERS AND CULTURAL BELIEFS INFLUENCING EXCLUSIVE BREASTFEEDING AMONG WORKING MOTHERS IN NAVY TOWN, LAGOS

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is crucial for an infant’s healthy growth and development, providing complete nutrition and immune protection for the first six months of life. Despite its proven benefits and global recommendations by the World Health Organization (WHO), many working mothers struggle to sustain EBF. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of EBF among working mothers, identify influencing factors, assess workplace support, and examine associations with sociodemographic characteristics. A cross-sectional descriptive survey of 346 working mothers was conducted using a structured questionnaire. The EBF practice score was derived from four indicators: current EBF status, timing of other food introduction, reasons for early introduction, and feeding method at work. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests. Results showed that 52% of mothers were still practising EBF at the time of the survey. However, 48% had already introduced other foods before the recommended six months. Common reasons for early introduction included advice from family/friends (43.4%) and return to work (40.4%). Major perceived barriers included inflexible work schedules (58.1%), inadequate lactation facilities (61.3%), and balancing work–family responsibilities (60.1%). Cultural influences were notable, with 52.8% reporting family encouragement for early introduction and 53.5% perceiving cultural beliefs as discouraging EBF. Chi-square analysis found no significant association between EBF status and educational level, employment sector, or work schedule (p > 0.05). While the WHO target for EBF was achieved, structural and cultural barriers remain significant, underscoring the urgent need for improved workplace policies, culturally tailored education, and enhanced postnatal lactation support in Nigeria.