Maternal nutrition education among midwives and student midwives in Nigeria: a cross-sectional study

Background/Aims Good maternal nutrition is critical for healthy pregnancies. In Nigeria, little is known about midwives’ and student midwives’ knowledge of maternal nutrition. This study aimed to assess maternal nutrition education among this population, exploring their perspectives, knowledge and confidence in providing advice during antenatal care. Methods This cross-sectional study involved a convenience sample of 214 midwives and student midwives. Questionnaires were distributed online exploring the participants’ education, nutrition education received both during and outside of their midwifery training and their confidence in providing nutrition-related advice. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-squared tests and one-way analysis of variance. Results Most (90%) of the participants received nutrition education as part of formal training, with nutrition during pregnancy (73.8%) and breastfeeding (73.8%) being extensively covered. Midwives with a Master's degree reported more confidence in providing nutrition advice than those with a Bachelor's degree ( P =0.010) and those who were still students ( P <0.001). Almost half (47.2%) had access to dietitians for consultation or referrals and 82.2% made referrals, despite barriers such as client disinterest (59.7%). Verbal communication was the most common method of providing advice (90.5%). However, only 25.3% of participants correctly identified the recommended timing for folic acid supplementation, highlighting gaps in the participants’ knowledge. Conclusions Nigerian midwives and student midwives had good knowledge of maternal nutrition but some knowledge gaps were identified. Regular training updates and involving dietitians in the planning and delivery of nutrition education may help to improve this. Implications for practice Nutrition knowledge and skills must be regularly updated via ongoing, evidence-based continuous professional development. Improved access to dietitians and multidisciplinary working, including involving dietitians in midwives’ and student midwives’ training, would enhance antenatal care.