High Knowledge, Low Practice: Mothers in Sierra Leone Struggle with Exclusive Breastfeeding
Exclusive breastfeeding is important for both mothers and babies, but many mothers in Sierra Leone don't follow the recommended practices. A study at Kenema Government Referral Hospital looked at what mothers know, think, and do about exclusive breastfeeding. Most mothers knew about exclusive breastfeeding, but not all followed the guidelines. Knowing more about breastfeeding and having a positive attitude towards it were linked to better exclusive breastfeeding practices. However, there were gaps in understanding the benefits of breastfeeding and how it works. The study suggests that more education, government support, and research on cultural factors are needed to improve exclusive breastfeeding rates and reduce infant mortality.