Maternal Nutritional Knowledge, Social Support, and Breastfeeding Outcomes among Nursing Mothers in Ibadan, Oyo State Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Maternal nutritional knowledge and social support are key determinants for breastfeeding outcomes in the rural and peri-urban settings. The present study assessed maternal nutritional knowledge and social support and their relationship with breastfeeding outcomes of nursing mothers in Egbeda LGA, Ibadan, Nigeria.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 217 breastfeeding mothers with infants aged 0–24 months, recruited through multistage sampling from four primary health centres. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 with descriptive statistics and chi-square tests; significance was set at p<0.05.

Results: Of the respondents, 27.7% had high nutritional knowledge, 52.7% moderate, and 19.6% low. Having a partner who encourages breastfeeding was common (44.2%), but less prevalent were practical support such as help with housework (36.9%) and cooking (42.9%). Child nutritional status showed a double burden: wasting affected 27.3%, overweight 13.9%, and stunting nearly one-third. Maternal knowledge was significantly associated with wasting (χ²=11.000; p=0.008). Household income and parity were strongly associated with maternal knowledge (p<0.001).

Conclusion: Maternal nutritional knowledge alone does not guarantee optimal breastfeeding outcomes. Partner involvement, family support, and consistent health worker counselling are essential for sustaining exclusive breastfeeding and improving child health outcomes.