Barriers and facilitators of early initiation of breastfeeding Practice In Imo State: findings from the perception of Mothers and Health Workers

Background and Objectives: Despite the well-known benefits of breastfeeding, many barriers hinder its early initiation, and several facilitators promote it. Understanding these barriers and facilitators is crucial to promote optimal practice. Objectives: This research explored the determinants of early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF), highlighting the factors that affect the decision-making process of mothers and healthcare providers in Imo state, Nigeria. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved purposive sampling of 66 mother-child pairs and 10 health workers across four primary healthcare centres in Imo state. Semi-structured individual interviews and focus group discussions were used to explore the determinants of the practice of early initiation of breastfeeding. Qualitative data (transcripts) were analysed using the QDAMiner Lite software. Thematic analysis involving organizing, and summarizing qualitative data was adopted and codes were used to classify text excerpts into their appropriate categories. Results: Summarily, mothers and health workers pointed out the following positive determinants: baby crying; educating the mothers on EIBF; support from midwives; training of health workers; health workers' knowledge of EIBF. They also pointed out the following barriers: delayed breast milk flow; lack of knowledge on the subject matter; mother and mother-in-law influence; mother's health status; mother's personal belief; no support from midwives; delivery via cesarean section; no record of EIBF; lack of training; and poor motivation. Conclusions: The results show how vital the understanding of the concept and benefits of EIBF facilitates its practice from the perspective of mothers and health workers. Continuous investments to train health workers who in turn teach mothers should be prioritized.