Prevalence and Coping Strategies for Maintaining Exclusive Breastfeeding among Female Bankers in Kwara State

Abstract

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is essential for infant health and development, yet many working mothers face challenges in maintaining the practice. Objectives: This study assessed the coping strategies adopted to uphold EBF among female bankers in Kwara State, Nigeria. Specifically, it assessed the prevalence of EBF and the association between key socio-demographic variables and the identified coping strategies. Methodology: A descriptive survey research design was employed. The target population included female bankers aged 18–40 years who had breastfed for at least six months and had children aged 6 months to 2 years. Using Yamane’s formula, a sample size of 255 was determined. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics were tested at the 0.05 level of significance. Results: A total of 163 (68%) upheld EBF for the first six months out of the 240 respondents sampled. Coping strategies adopted included personal planning, support from family, peers, and workplace ‘buddies’. Institutional supports were notably lacking. No significant associations were found between coping strategies and age (F = 0.575, p>0.05), religion (t = 1.001, p>0.05), family size (F = 0.481, p > 0.05), or job position (F = 0.334, p > 0.05). Conclusion/ Recommendations: Participants largely relied on non-institutional strategies to sustain EBF, with workplace-related support being insufficient. It was recommended thus that employers and policymakers should implement structured breastfeeding-friendly policies, including lactation spaces, flexible schedules, and extended maternity leave, to enhance EBF adherence.