Reflections on the Community Empowerment in Giving Exclusive Breastfeeding

Abstract

Background: Less than 40 percent of children under the age of six months were given exclusive breastfeeding
(WHO, 2015). Therefore, this study will fundamentally analyze qualitatively the community empowerment
model related to exclusive breastfeeding so that the target of achieving exclusive breastfeeding can be
achieved progressively and effectively. Method: The type of research used was qualitative research The
descriptive explorative approach was chosen in accordance with the research objectives of exploring the
perspectives, experiences, and expectations of breastfeeding mothers and related parties. The study was
conducted in five community health center in Surabaya. Data collection was carried out through indepth
interview with breastfeeding mothers. Total respondents was 50 people. The process of data analysis used the
nine-step data interpretation method according to Colluizi. Result: there were 7 themes and 24 categories.
The theme were: miss perception, benefits of breastmilk, support, obstacles, myth, cureent prohram, and
expectation. Discussion: Good cooperation between family, government, and institutions where mothers
work is needed to achieve exclusive breastfeeding. in addition, massive exclusive breastmilk education
through social media and advertising is an urgent need.