Incorporating cultural beliefs in promoting exclusive breastfeeding

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Since 2003, the World Health Organization has recommended exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life. In the Northwest region of Cameroon approximately 90% of women initiate breastfeeding, yet only 34% of these women exclusively breastfeed for the recommended six months. AIM To determine influences on women's exclusive breastfeeding practices. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six women and six men followed by focus group discussions with three groups of women and three groups of men in the Kumbo West Health District, Northwest region, Cameroon. All participants were selected using theoretical sampling to assure triangulation. RESULTS Three themes emerged that influence exclusive breastfeeding practices: woman's readiness to exclusively breastfeed; cultural influences towards exclusive breastfeeding; and perceived constraints to exclusive breastfeeding. CONCLUSION These emergent themes were used to create a theoretical framework that is useful for developing a breastfeeding health education intervention in non-Western settings.