Knowledge and Attitude of Postnatal Women Towards Exclusive Breastfeeding at Specialist Hospital Yola, Adamawa State

Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life remains the global gold standard for infant nutrition, yet rates in northern Nigeria fall significantly below national and global targets, with Adamawa State recording consistently low exclusive breastfeeding prevalence. This study assesses knowledge and attitude of postnatal women towards exclusive breastfeeding at Specialist Hospital Yola, Adamawa State, North East Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study enrolled 200 postnatal women in the first 48 hours after delivery. A structured interviewer-administered questionnaire measured knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding definition and duration, health benefits, contraindications, and attitude towards practising it. Good knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding was demonstrated in only 41 percent of respondents. Only 29 percent correctly identified six months as the recommended exclusive breastfeeding duration. Attitude was positive in 65 percent, though husband preference for early complementary feeding was cited by 42 percent as a potential barrier. Education level and prior exposure to breastfeeding counselling were the strongest predictors of adequate knowledge. The study identifies knowledge deficits and spousal influence as critical determinants of exclusive breastfeeding intention in Yola postnatal women. Recommendations include mandatory lactation counselling before hospital discharge, male partner inclusion in breastfeeding education during antenatal visits, and community breastfeeding support groups coordinated through the Adamawa State Ministry of Health. Keywords: exclusive breastfeeding, postnatal women, Yola, Adamawa State, knowledge and attitude