Includes bibliographical references.

Abstract

Exclusive breastfeeding is very important for optimum nutrition from 0-59 months in the life of children. This study was conducted in the Cebu municipality that currently ranks 1st in the highest number or prevalence of under nutrition in the whole province. The research primarily aimed to determine the breastfeeding practices of caregivers in terms of initiation and duration and their underlying factors. The research employed both quantitative and qualitative method approaches. Factor Analysis was employed in the treatment of data.

Results of the study show a high initiation rate of breastfeeding in general but low in doing exclusive breastfeeding (EBF). The study also generated seven factors underlying breastfeeding practices which can be categorized into individual, group and societal factors. These factors are Social Support and Advocacy, Media, Mother’s Attitude and Motivation, Presence of Health Workers, Peer Counseling Sessions, Community Health Education (Mother Classes and House to House), and Influence from Neighbors and Friends. Social support and advocacy stood out as most significant factors.

The study concludes that regardless of the demographic profile of caregivers as long as there is social support and positive attitude of mothers, babies will be exclusively breastfed. There is lack of correct information on the duration of EBF especially on the need to do complementary feeding when the child reach six months. Hence topics on complementary feeding should be intensified in health teachings during peer counseling session, mother classes and house-to-house visits by active health workers. Also,the use of social media should be optimized in advocacy and information sharing on breastfeeding.

College of Health Sciences Graduate Studies Master of Arts in Nursing with specialization in Nursing Administration and Supervision

Text in English