Influence of Maternal Occupation on Infant Feeding Practices in Abeokuta, Ogun State

This study examines the influence of maternal occupation on infant feeding practices among mothers in Abeokuta, Ogun State, South West Nigeria. Maternal employment patterns significantly shape breastfeeding initiation, duration, and complementary feeding decisions. Urban working mothers face particular challenges in sustaining exclusive breastfeeding due to workplace constraints, time pressures, and cultural expectations. Using a descriptive survey design, the study targets 250 mothers of infants aged 0 to 24 months attending child welfare clinics in Abeokuta North and South local government areas. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Objectives include assessing the occupational profiles of respondents, determining their infant feeding practices, and examining the association between maternal occupation type and feeding behaviour. Recent literature from South West Nigeria identifies civil servants and market traders as having the most contrasting breastfeeding patterns, with formal sector employment significantly reducing exclusive breastfeeding rates. Data were analysed using chi-square, logistic regression, and frequency tables. The Ecological Determinants of Health Model frames the study by situating infant feeding behaviour within the interaction of individual, workplace, and community factors. Findings are expected to reveal that employed mothers in formal settings exhibit lower rates of exclusive breastfeeding but comparable complementary feeding quality. Recommendations address the Ogun State Ministry of Health, employers, and Home Economics educators to promote workplace breastfeeding support policies. Keywords: maternal occupation, infant feeding, breastfeeding, complementary feeding, Ogun State.