Vol. 2, Issue 2, Part A (2025)

Background: Breastfeeding is a critical determinant of infant health, growth, and survival. Despite its proven benefits, exclusive breastfeeding rates remain suboptimal in many settings, contributing to malnutrition and growth faltering in early life. This study aimed to assess the impact of structured breastfeeding education on infant growth outcomes and exclusive breastfeeding rates during the first six months of life.
Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted among 120 mother-infant dyads, divided into intervention and control groups. The intervention group received structured breastfeeding education delivered by trained nursing professionals, while the control group received routine care. Anthropometric indicators—weight-for-age (WFA), length-for-age (LFA), and head circumference-for-age (HCA)—were recorded at baseline, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rates were al assessed at follow-ups. Statistical analyses included independent t-tests and chi-square tests, with p < 0.05 considered significant.
Results: At baseline, both groups were comparable in growth indicators. From 6 weeks onwards, the intervention group exhibited significantly higher mean WFA and LFA z-scores, with the greatest differences observed at 6 months. HCA al improved modestly in the intervention group compared to controls. EBF rates were significantly higher in the intervention group at each follow-up point, with ablute differences ranging from 15% to 25%.
Conclusion: Structured breastfeeding education significantly improved exclusive breastfeeding practices and contributed to better infant growth outcomes during the first six months of life. These findings highlight the importance of integrating structured breastfeeding education into routine maternal and child health services, empowering nursing professionals to play a key role in health promotion and malnutrition prevention. Strengthening breastfeeding support at both clinical and community levels can help achieve optimal growth trajectories and improve child health outcomes at the population level.