The Impact of Paid Maternity Leave on Exclusive Breastfeeding in Nasarawa State
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Background of the Study
Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for the first six months of life is essential for infant health, providing critical nutrients, immunity support, and developmental benefits (World Health Organization [WHO], 2024). However, many working mothers face challenges in maintaining exclusive breastfeeding due to early return to work, lack of workplace breastfeeding support, and short maternity leave durations.
Paid maternity leave plays a crucial role in enabling mothers to breastfeed exclusively, as it allows them time to establish and maintain breastfeeding without work-related interruptions. Studies have shown that countries and regions with longer paid maternity leave periods have higher rates of exclusive breastfeeding compared to areas with shorter or unpaid maternity leave policies (United Nations Children’s Fund [UNICEF], 2024).
In Nasarawa State, many working mothers return to work within a few weeks of childbirth due to financial constraints and employer policies that do not support extended maternity leave. As a result, many mothers introduce formula feeding or complementary foods earlier than recommended, leading to a decline in exclusive breastfeeding rates. This study seeks to investigate the relationship between paid maternity leave and exclusive breastfeeding practices among working mothers in Nasarawa State.
Statement of the Problem
Despite global recommendations for exclusive breastfeeding, many working mothers in Nasarawa State struggle to adhere to this practice due to limited maternity leave benefits. The standard maternity leave period in many organizations is often too short to support exclusive breastfeeding, forcing mothers to introduce formula or supplementary feeding earlier than recommended.
Many workplaces in Nasarawa State lack breastfeeding-friendly policies, such as lactation rooms, flexible work schedules, or extended paid maternity leave, making it difficult for mothers to continue breastfeeding upon returning to work. This challenge contributes to lower breastfeeding rates, increased infant morbidity, and higher healthcare costs due to preventable childhood illnesses.
While various studies highlight the importance of paid maternity leave for breastfeeding outcomes, there is limited research specifically examining its impact in Nasarawa State. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between paid maternity leave and exclusive breastfeeding practices among employed mothers in the state.
Objectives of the Study
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To assess the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding among employed mothers in Nasarawa State.
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To evaluate the impact of paid maternity leave on exclusive breastfeeding practices.
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To identify workplace policies that influence breastfeeding continuation among working mothers.
Research Questions
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What is the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding among working mothers in Nasarawa State?
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How does paid maternity leave affect exclusive breastfeeding rates?
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What workplace policies exist to support breastfeeding among employed mothers in Nasarawa State?
Research Hypotheses
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Mothers with paid maternity leave are more likely to practice exclusive breastfeeding than those without.
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Limited paid maternity leave leads to early discontinuation of exclusive breastfeeding.
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Organizations with breastfeeding-friendly policies have higher exclusive breastfeeding rates among employed mothers.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on employed mothers in Nasarawa State, assessing their breastfeeding practices and the impact of paid maternity leave on exclusive breastfeeding. Limitations may include difficulty in accessing workplace policies and variations in maternity leave policies across different organizations.
Definitions of Terms
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Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF): The practice of feeding an infant only breast milk, with no additional food or drink, for the first six months of life.
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Paid maternity leave: A workplace policy that provides financial compensation to mothers during a leave period after childbirth.
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Breastfeeding-friendly workplace policies: Organizational practices that support breastfeeding mothers, such as lactation rooms, flexible work schedules, and extended maternity leave.
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