Table 2 Knowledge and attitude of mothers (n = 634) towards exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), Debre Berhan District, April 2014
Characteristics | Frequency | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
Knowledge | ||
Ever heard about exclusive breastfeeding | ||
Yes | 618 | 97.5 |
No | 16 | 2.5 |
If you have heard about exclusive breastfeeding, from whom (n = 618)¥ | ||
Health Extension Workers / Health Workers | 559 | 90.5 |
Mass media (radio or television) | 188 | 30.4 |
Husband | 151 | 24.4 |
Friends/colleagues | 114 | 18.4 |
Health Development Army | 60 | 9.7 |
Community Health Agents | 59 | 9.5 |
Ideal time duration for EBF | ||
correct time (6 months ) | 529 | 83.4 |
Incorrect time (less or greater than 6 months) | 105 | 16.6 |
Ideal time to wean an infant | ||
correct time (6 months ) | 453 | 71.5 |
Incorrect time | 181 | 28.5 |
Attitude | ||
Why do you breastfeed your infant (n = 634) ¥ | ||
An accepted norm to EBF infant | 451 | 71.1 |
It is natural gift | 185 | 29.2 |
it is clean and accessible | 130 | 20.5 |
Easy and cost effective | 68 | 10.7 |
Do you want to breastfeed your next baby? | ||
Yes | 519 | 81.9 |
No | 25 | 3.9 |
Don’t want any more children | 90 | 14.2 |
Do you encourage mothers to EBF their infant? | ||
yes | 618 | 97.5 |
No | 16 | 2.5 |
Why do you encourage exclusive breastfeeding? (n = 634) ¥ | ||
Prevent infection and infant death | 421 | 68.1 |
Improve infant's strength | 228 | 36.9 |
Cost effective | 121 | 19.6 |