Publications

This research aimed to rigorously evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice concerningexclusive breastfeeding among lactating mothers attending Hoima Regional Referral Hospital(HRRH). Employing a quantitative descriptive research design, the study meticulouslyselected mothers seeking medical attention for their infants at HRRH, adhering to rigorousselection criteria. A sample size of 208 subjects participated, comprising lactating motherswith infants aged between 0-6 months, utilizing a self-administered structured questionnaireto gather comprehensive data on exclusive breastfeeding behaviors. The data collectedunderwent meticulous analysis utilizing Statistical Analysis Software (STATA) version 10.Results revealed that a majority of the participants were aged between 25-29 years (30.8%)and had attained secondary education (38.5%), with an employment status predominantly asemployed individuals or peasants (38.5%). The study cohort primarily resided in urban areas.Among the 208 lactating mothers, a significant proportion (61.5%) initiated breastfeedingwithin the first hour after birth, with the mode of delivery significantly influencing thisinitiation, favoring normal deliveries. However, the practice of exclusive breastfeedingexhibited a decline over subsequent months. Assessment of knowledge demonstrated thatover 80% of mothers possessed substantial knowledge regarding exclusive breastfeeding,with a small percentage (5%) exhibiting poor knowledge. In terms of attitude, 74.4% expressedcomfort and acknowledged exclusive breastfeeding as superior to artificial feeding, yet 40.9%reported feelings of shyness while breastfeeding. Interestingly, a positive correlationbetween higher education levels and a favorable attitude toward exclusive breastfeeding wasobserved. Overall, the study revealed a generally commendable level of knowledge, attitude,and practice concerning exclusive breastfeeding among lactating mothers attending HoimaRegional Referral Hospital. However, a notable finding was the significant decline inexclusive breastfeeding prevalence observed from the first month following initiation.Keywords: Exclusive breastfeeding, Breast milk, Infants, Lactating mothers.