Abstract
Introduction: The practice of breast feeding is popular since ancient times. Though some mothers understand the importance of breast feeding, but others are less knowledgeable on the benefits of breastfeeding and complementary feeding. We planned this study to assess the knowledge, attitude and various patterns practiced (KAP) by antenatal and post-natal mothers.
Methods: This questionnaire based study was carried out among antenatal and postnatal mothers admitted at MGMSC Khaneri, a Hospital draining the rural and tribal population. Information on maternal KAP on exclusive breast feeding (EBF) was collected through structured questionnaire from a total of 102 mothers. Data regarding demographic characteristics of the mothers, as well as KAP on breastfeeding was collected and evaluated.
Results: A total 102 mothers were included in this study. Out of them, 49 (48%) were antenatal fullterm primi-para and 53 (52%) were multipara with prior experience of breast feeding. The age ranged from 18 to 35 years with a mean age of 26 years. Maximum (84.3%) of them were from joint family with middle class socio-economic status. Amongst lactating mothers approximately 83.3% mothers initiated breastfeeding within one hour of delivery and 95.1% mothers continued EBF for 6 months. Most of the lactating mothers learned the practice of breast feeding from elders while 51.9% received counseling from medical staff. Pre-lacteals were given by 7.8% mothers. The majority of mothers knew about breast feeding and had a positive attitude towards EBF. Regarding recommended duration, maternal & neonatal benefits of EBF, mothers were less knowledgeable.
Conclusion: The majority of mothers knew about EBF and had a positive attitude towards EBF but did not know the recommended duration or maternal and neonatal benefits of breast feeding. Breastfeeding counseling and health education on nutrition to the mother by health workers should be promoted during antenatal visits.
Keywords: Breastfeeding, Knowledge, Practices, Attitude, Lactating mothers.
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Corresponding Author
Dr Nidhi Jindal
MGMSC Khaneri, Tehsil-Rampur, Distt.-Shimla (H.P.) Pin-172001, India
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v6i8.143
