Knowledge, attitudes and breast-feeding practices of postnatal mothers in Central India

Authors

  • Jayant V. Upadhye Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Colours Children Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
  • Milind R. Mandlik Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Colours Children Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
  • Aditi J. Upadhye Department of Pathology, PDMMC, Amravati, Maharashtra, India
  • Sanjay M. Marathe Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Colours Children Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
  • Abhay R. Matte Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Colours Children Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
  • Jayshree J. Upadhye Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rajshree Medical College, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-1770.ijrcog20183426

Keywords:

Attitude, Breast feeding, India, Infant feeding practices, Knowledge, Mothers

Abstract

Background: Breast feeding is vital for the health of baby & mother. It is of advantage to baby, mother, family, society and nation. Present study was carried out to evaluate knowledge, attitude and breast feeding practices of postnatal women.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out at immunization centre. 208 postnatal women were interviewed.

Results: Out of 208 postnatal women, 148 women (71.15%) had delivery by caesarean section while 60 women (28.84%) had vaginal delivery. 118 women (56.73%) started breast feeding the baby within 2 hours of delivery, 52 women (25%) started breast feeding the baby after 24 hours of delivery, 26 women (12.5%) started breast feeding the baby after 2-6 hours of delivery while 12 women (5.76%) started breast feeding the baby after 6-24 hours of delivery. 174 women (83.65%) were giving exclusive breast feeding to their babies, 32 women (15.38%) were giving mixed feeding to their babies due to failure to thrive because of inadequate breast secretions. 28 (13.46%) preferred to give formula feeds while 7 (3.36%) preferred to give cow’s milk when needed. 180 (86.53%) intend or started weaning after 6 months while 28 women (13.46%) started weaning to their babies due to failure of baby to thrive or inadequate lactation.

Conclusions: Awareness of breast feeding was good. Majority preferred exclusive breast feeding. Still, antenatal counseling about breast feeding can be further of advantage.

References

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Published

2018-08-27

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Original Research Articles