Mothers’ awareness, attitudes and practices related to exclusive breastfeeding for first six months of infancy-.A community based study in Chittur taluk, Palakkad district
No Thumbnail Available
Files
Date
2016-10
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
SCTIMST
Abstract
Background:
Even though breast milk is the universally accepted infant feeding method, practices of pre
lacteal feeding, late initiation of breast milk, early initiation of complementary feeding are
still prevalent in many countries including India. This study assessed mothers’ awareness,
attitudes and practices regarding exclusive breast feeding up to first six months of infancy.
Methods: A community based cross sectional study was conducted among 308 mothers of
six to twelve months old infants residing in Chittur taluk, Palakkad district, Kerala.
Structured interview schedule and IOWA infant feeding attitude scale was used for data
collection. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 21.
Results: Majority of participants (83%) was aware about duration of exclusive breastfeeding
and 71 percent of participants had neutral attitude towards breastfeeding. Only 24 percent of
participants exclusively breastfed their children up to five to six months, among mothers who
were aware about duration of exclusive breastfeeding only 27.1 percent practiced exclusive
breastfeeding up to five to six months.
The information on breastfeeding received during antenatal period significantly relates with
awareness and practices of mothers. Advice from family members and insufficient breast
milk were the major reasons for nonexclusive breast feeding.
Conclusion:
Most of the identified reasons for non-adherence of exclusive breastfeeding were modifiable.
Along with awareness, the mothers and family members should be motivated to practice it.
The information regarding breastfeeding provided during antenatal period can significantly
improve the awareness and practices related to exclusive breastfeeding. Antenatal support
and counseling regarding breastfeeding should be provided as essential maternal health
services.