Countering Misconceptions on Exclusive Breastfeeding Among Pregnant Women in Yola, Adamawa State Using a Dual Feedback-Loop Communication Model

Abstract

Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF) approach to child nutrition has been identified as an effective means of reducing child mortality and improving infant and maternal health. Regrettably, some nursing mothers are reluctant to adopt the method of child nutrition due to misconceptions arising from inadequate knowledge, myths and cultural practices. This paper evaluates the effectiveness of Dual Feedback Loop Communication Model in countering misconceptions about exclusive breastfeeding among pregnant women attending ante-natal clinic at Specialist Hospital, Yola Adamawa State, Nigeria. The objectives of the paper are to: identify the misconceptions pregnant women attending ante-natal clinic at Specialist Hospital, Yola have on exclusive breastfeeding; determine whether there is a variance in the conception of exclusive breastfeeding in the target group and analyse the effectiveness Dual Feedback-Loop communication model in countering misconceptions on exclusive breastfeeding. A mixed-method design, that combines quantitative and qualitative approaches, was adopted for the study. Data for the study was derived from responses of a cross section of participants comprising thirty-three (33) pregnant women, who were selected purposively.