KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND BREASTFEEDING PRACTICES AMONG POSTNATAL MOTHERS IN A SECONDARY CARE CENTRE: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

*Dr. Twinkle Sood and Dr. Divya Dhiman

ABSTRACT

Background: Breast feeding is physiological and ideal way of feeding the infant. It offers complete nutrition, early protection against illness, and promotes growth and development of the infant. This study aims at assessing the basic knowledge and attitude toward breastfeeding in postnatal mothers in a secondary care centre. Methods: This study was conducted over a period of 3 months from 1st April, 2021 till 31st June, 2021 at civil hospital, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. The knowledge and attitude of mothers was assessed using a structured questionnaire. Sociodemographic profile, mode of delivery and breastfeeding practices were recorded. Results: A total of 300 lactating females were included in the study. Majority of mothers (68%) were in the age group of 21-25 years. 30% of the females were illiterate, 72% were homemakers, 54% belonged to nuclear family and only 22% belonged to urban population. Out of 300 mothers 80% females had knowledge regarding timing of initiation of breastfeeding, 72% had knowledge regarding colostrum feed and 40% had knowledge regarding exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusions: In a developing country like India where vast majority of population do not have enough resources breastfeeding is a pivotal factor between life and death of infants. Mothers had an average knowledge regarding breastfeeding and there is a need for individual “breastfeeding counselling, training and health education on nutrition” to the mother by health workers which should be started from the antenatal period itself.

Keywords: breastfeeding, attitude, knowledge, mothers.