Impact of neonatal hospitalization on maternal–infant bonding and lactation outcomes among mothers in tertiary healthcare facilities in Nigeria
Eniye Favour Omoregie, Abieyuwa Eweka, Bukola Mabel Akinrinmola, Precious Evbaguehita OnaghiseAbstract
Background:
Maternal–infant bonding and early initiation of breastfeeding are crucial for neonatal survival, emotional well-being, and long-term positive health outcomes. However, admission of newborns to special care baby units (SCBUs) often leads to maternal–infant separation, which may adversely affect bonding and lactation, particularly in resource-constrained settings.
Objective:
To evaluate the effect of newborn hospitalization on maternal–infant bonding and lactation outcomes among mothers in Benin, Edo State, Nigeria.
Materials and Methods:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 60 mothers whose newborns were admitted to the SCBU at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin, Edo State, Nigeria. A census sampling method was employed. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire with satisfactory reliability (Cronbach’s
Results:
The majority of respondents (83.3%) indicated that neonatal hospitalization negatively influenced maternal–infant bonding and breastfeeding outcomes. Key contributing factors included restricted maternal access to the newborns (100%), incubator care (88.3%), and the severity of neonatal illness (63.3%). Additionally, 40.0% of mothers reported decreased milk production, mainly due to limited mother–infant interaction and insufficient breastfeeding stimulation. A statistically significant association was observed between newborn hospitalization and impaired bonding and lactation outcomes (χ
2
= 26.67,
Conclusion:
Hospitalization of newborns was significantly associated with disrupted maternal–infant bonding and unfavorable breastfeeding outcomes. Interventions such as family-centered care, enhanced maternal access to hospitalized newborns, kangaroo mother care, and structured lactation support services are recommended to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes.