Exclusive Breastfeeding: Dream to Achieve, Hurdles to Overcome

Abstract

The pattern of infant feeding during the first six months has a significant influence on the infant’s health outcomes. Unfortunately, many mothers find it difficult to satisfy their goal of exclusive breastfeeding, despite a higher rate in the initiation of breastfeeding. This narrative review aims to explore the literature for barriers linked with exclusive breastfeeding. Using appropriate search terms, the scholarly database was searched for relevant articles that met the review objective. The preponderance of current evidence strongly suggests that exclusivity in breastfeeding is possible by taking steps to reduce the barriers faced by the mothers. This article will provide an overview for nurses who care for women during the intrapartum and postpartum period to understand the obstacles and to promote breastfeeding self-efficacy and exclusiveness.