AWARENESS AND PERSPECTIVE ON EXCLUSIVE BREASTFEEDING AS A CONTRACEPTIVE METHOD AMONG WOMEN ATTENDING ANTENATAL CLINICS IN GWARINPHA GENERAL HOSPITAL ABUJA

Exclusive breastfeeding is globally recognized as an essential practice for improving maternal and child health outcomes, providing nutritional, immunological, and contraceptive benefits through the Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM). This study assessed the level of awareness and perception of exclusive breastfeeding as a contraceptive method among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at Gwarinpha General Hospital, Abuja. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted for the study. The study population comprised pregnant women attending antenatal care, from whom a sample of 60 respondents was selected using the Taro Yamane formula. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics as well as awareness and perception of exclusive breastfeeding. Data analysis was performed using simple percentages with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. The findings revealed that slightly over half (55%) of the respondents were aware of exclusive breastfeeding. About 72% acknowledged that exclusive breastfeeding could serve as a contraceptive method, and 65% perceived it to be effective. Despite this, only a small proportion of respondents practiced exclusive breastfeeding consistently for the recommended six months. Major barriers identified included cultural beliefs, heavy workload, and inadequate knowledge. The study concludes that although awareness and perception of exclusive breastfeeding as a contraceptive method were moderate, correct understanding and sustained practice were insufficient. It therefore recommends intensified health education, counseling during antenatal care, and community-based awareness programs to improve knowledge and utilization of exclusive breastfeeding as a natural contraceptive method.