Developing a Participatory Health Promotion Model: Community Cadre Interventions for Exclusive Breastfeeding among Working Mothers

Abstract

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life is a critical public health strategy for reducing infant morbidity and supporting maternal health. However, rates among working postpartum mothers remain suboptimal due to employment demands, limited workplace support, and insufficient social reinforcement. Addressing these barriers requires a nuanced understanding of the social milieu that shapes breastfeeding practices in professional and community contexts.

Objective: This study investigates the factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding behaviour among working postpartum mothers and evaluates the role of Community Health Workers (cadres) in promoting breastfeeding in the community.

Methodology: Utilising a qualitative exploratory design, the study employed purposive sampling to select research subjects based on predefined criteria. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analysed to capture the lived experiences of working mothers and the operational challenges faced by community cadres.

Results: The thematic analysis identified four primary themes: knowledge, attitudes, motivation, and perceptions. The findings reveal that while mothers often possess basic knowledge, their actual behaviour is heavily dictated by their perceptions of workplace flexibility and the motivation derived from social support. Verbatim accounts from participants highlight the "dual-role" tension experienced by working women and the limitations of current support frameworks.

Conclusion: Working mothers constitute a vulnerable group that lacks consistent and intensive support. The study concludes that the role of Community Health Workers must evolve from merely disseminating information to becoming active agents of behaviour change. Furthermore, top-down promotion methods are often ineffective; a shift towards participatory, community-sensitive approaches is essential.

Unique Contribution: This research advances evidence for the necessity of community-based interventions that account for the dualism of roles held by working women. It offers a framework for transitioning from traditional health education to a participatory model that leverages community cadres as strategic partners.

Key Recommendation: A successful model for promoting exclusive breastfeeding among working mothers must be integrated and participatory. It is recommended that Community Health Workers be empowered as active community partners, supported by family-centric interventions and breastfeeding-friendly institutional policies to ensure sustainable practice.