Knowledge and Practice Regarding Breastfeeding among Lactating Mothers in Omdurman City, Sudan

  • Hanan Elamin Ibrahim Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Omdurman Islamic University, Omdurman, Sudan.
  • Juwayria Abdullah Mahjoub Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Omdurman Islamic University, Omdurman, Sudan.
  • Zahraa Abdul Latif Ali Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Omdurman Islamic University, Omdurman, Sudan.
  • Zohal Kamal Osman Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Omdurman Islamic University, Omdurman, Sudan.
  • Azhari A. Mohammed Nour Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Al-Baha University, Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52981/jfst.v10i10.3405
Keywords: Breastfeeding, Knowledge, Practices, Lactating Mothers, Omdurman, Sudan

Abstract

Breastfeeding is essential for infant and maternal health. However, in many urban areas of Sudan, breastfeeding practices are shaped by maternal knowledge, socio-economic conditions, and cultural beliefs. Despite global recommendations for exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months, misconceptions and early supplementation remain common. This study assessed breastfeeding knowledge and practices among lactating mothers in Omdurman City, Sudan, and identified gaps that may hinder optimal breastfeeding. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 50 lactating mothers using structured interviews. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) in SPSS version 22. Most mothers (82%) initiated breastfeeding within the first hour, and 98% provided colostrum. However, only 56% demonstrated adequate knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding, and 78% introduced water during the first six months. Formula feeding was reported by 22%, mainly due to perceived milk insufficiency. Overweight and obesity were identified in 40% of mothers. Early initiation and colostrum feeding were highly encouraged, but substantial knowledge gaps regarding exclusive breastfeeding and misconceptions about milk insufficiency persist. Strengthening antenatal and postnatal education, alongside maternal nutrition counseling, is essential to promote exclusive breastfeeding.

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Published
2025-09-21
How to Cite
Hanan Elamin Ibrahim, Juwayria Abdullah Mahjoub, Zahraa Abdul Latif Ali, Zohal Kamal Osman, & Azhari A. Mohammed Nour. (2025). Knowledge and Practice Regarding Breastfeeding among Lactating Mothers in Omdurman City, Sudan. Journal of The Faculty of Science and Technology, 10(10), 71 - 84. https://doi.org/10.52981/jfst.v10i10.3405
Issue
No. 10 (2025): Journal of The Faculty of Science and Technology (JFST)
Section
Articles