ASSESSMENT OF INFANT AND YOUNG CHILD FEEDING PRACTICES BY MOTHERS ATTENDING POST-NATAL CLINIC AT ABUJA MUNICIPAL AREA COUNCIL

Abstract

Feeding during the first two years of life are important for growth and mental development of a child and the prevention of malnutrition and child mortality. This study aimed at assessing the Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) Practice by mothers attending postnatal care at Family Health Clinic, Area 2 Garki, Abuja Municipal Area Council. A descriptive cross-sectional study design technique was utilized using semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire to collect data from a random sample of selected 100 mothers. Data on sociodemographic and economic characteristics, hygienic practices, breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices were collected. Among respondents, 74.4% were married women, mostly aged 26–30 (45.2%), and 57.3% had senior secondary education. Nearly half (46.3%) were traders or businesswomen. Children studied were mostly under 6 months (46.3%), followed by 7–12 months (32.9%) and 13–23 months (20.7%). Most (81.7%) had normal weight-for-height. Breastfeeding was prevalent (87.7%), with 58.3% feeding on demand and 58.0% breastfeeding over 8 times daily. Weaning occurred mainly at 12–23 months, with 80% weaned by mothers and 30% self-weaned. Complementary feeding was initiated by 79.0%, mostly at 6 months (52.5%) due to perceived readiness. Pap was the sole complementary food for 69.5%. Although breastfeeding practices were generally satisfactory, a significant proportion of mothers initiated complementary feeding earlier than the recommended 6 months, reflecting poor compliance with global guidelines.