Determinants for exclusive breastfeeding among employed mothers in Northern Ethiopia: a mixed methods study

This mixed method study aimed to explore the impact of maternal employment on exclusive breast feeding (EBF) in Ethiopia. Workplace managers had positive attitude but staff shortage and absence of policy impacted their decision in supporting breastfeeding. The employed mothers had good knowledge, positive attitude, and increased percentage of EBF when compared to previous surveys conducted in different parts of Ethiopia. The national requirement for four-months paid maternity leave as well as support from family and co-workers facilitated EBF. Increasing maternity leave to six months, the provision of breastfeeding spaces and breaks during workhours are recommended to further increase EBF.

Author requested conversion to open access 6 Mar 2023