Determinants of exclusive breastfeeding among mothers attending postnatal clinic at the University of Benin teaching hospital, Benin City, Nigeria

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) provides optimal nutrition and protection against common childhood illnesses. Despite its established benefits, EBF practice remains suboptimal in Nigeria. This study assessed the knowledge and practice of EBF and identified factors associated with its practice among mothers attending a postnatal clinic in Benin City, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 137 mothers attending the postnatal clinic of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires and analysed using SPSS version 26. Chi-square, Fisher's exact tests and logistic regression were applied, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Participants' mean age was 30.06±5.73 years and 94.2% were married. Good EBF knowledge and breastfeeding practice were recorded in 81% and 69%, respectively. Current EBF was reported by 61.3%, while 47.4% initiated breastfeeding within one hour of delivery. Antenatal breastfeeding counselling was received by 85.4%. Partner support and relatives' encouragement were reported by 83.2% and 81.8%, respectively. Breastfeeding challenges affected 56.9%, particularly breast/nipple pain (40.4%), perceived insufficient milk (23.4%) and return to work (12.8%). Good breastfeeding practice was significantly associated with antenatal counselling (p=0.016), EBF knowledge (p=0.006), partner support (p<0.001), relatives' encouragement (p<0.001) and peer practices (p=0.001). Partner support independently predicted good practice (OR=6.569; 95% CI: 4.328–37.951; p=0.008). Conclusions: Knowledge of EBF was high, but gaps remained in recommended practices. Antenatal counselling and social support, particularly from partners and families, were strongly associated with good breastfeeding practice. Interventions should emphasise sustained counselling, management of breastfeeding difficulties and active family involvement.