From Exclusive Breastfeeding to Mixed Feeding; The Experiences of Mothers in Cape Coast, Ghana

Introducing babies to other food substances after six months of exclusive breastfeeding can be very challenging for mothers, yet little is known about mothers' experiences during this transition. The study explores the experiences of mothers in Cape Coast using a descriptive narrative survey. The social cognitive theory served as a theoretical guide. Twenty-five mothers who have successfully completed six months of exclusive breastfeeding were purposively selected to participate in the study. Interviews with mothers generated several themes. Mothers found the introduction of supplementary foods very challenging at the beginning as babies seem not ready. Mothers’ level of education, social support, and friend’s way of feeding their babies were influential in mothers’ mixed feeding styles. Intensive infant feeding education and support from healthcare providers and mothers’ familial groups respectively are recommended for mothers in this transitional stage of the of their infants’ life so as to feed their babies appropriately.