Abstract:
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended as the best feeding alternative for infants up to six months and has protective effects against mortality and morbidity. It also seems to lower HIV-1 transmission compared to mix feeding. However, little is known about EBF among professional working mothers. Female workers are entitled to 12 weeks (84 days) of maternity leave with full pay in Tanzania. This study will assess the prevalence of EBF, as well as factors associated with the practice among professional working mothers at Nyamagana District.

Aim: The aim of this study is to identify adherence to exclusive breastfeeding among women who are working in the formal sector at Nyamagana district.

Methodology: The study was conducted among professional working mother at Nyamagana district. Participants were randomly selected and each participant was given a semi-structured questionnaire to fill and then the sample was analyzed using SPSS version 20.

Result and Discussion: Three hundred and ninety (390) completed the questionnaire and participants ranged in age from 20 to 40 years, professional working mothers within the age of 26-35 constituted the majority of the respondents representing 67.2%. 19% of professional working mothers were able to practice exclusive breastfeeding and 81% could not practice exclusive breastfeeding according to WHO recommended practice of exclusive breastfeeding.

Conclusion: From this study, it can be concluded professional working mothers find it extremely difficult to exclusively breastfeeding their babies according to the recommendation of world health organization. Professional working mothers are well knowledge able on exclusive breastfeeding practice with its benefits but their full time employment status and family members’ influence undermine and impede the practice of exclusive breastfeeding.