Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Regarding Breastfeeding among Primiparas Mothers in Kanchipuram District, Tamilnadu

Background: Breastfeeding is the fundamental component of the child-survival strategy.Lack of breast feeding – especially exclusive breast feeding during first few months of life is important as it reduces the risk factors for the infant mortality and the morbidity rate. Limited studies have attempted to understand the knowledge on benefits of breastfeeding among mothers which affect breastfeeding pattern in urban areas.

Objective: To find out the association of socio demographic factors and breastfeeding knowledge among Primiparas.To understand the current practices of breastfeeding among Primiparas.

Method: A quantitative, institutional based cross sectional study was conducted in a PG Medical college. Convenient Sampling was used to collect data from 216 Primiparas in the age group of 18-49 years having a child up to 12 months of age for a period of one month. Their knowledge and practice with regard to prelacteal feeds, initiation of breastfeeding, feeding colostrum, and exclusive breastfeeding were assessed.

Results: Various demographic factors like the Maternal age, Maternal age at marriage, Maternal education, type of delivery, and religion had a direct association on Breastfeeding knowledge. Statistically significant difference was also found in the prevalence of knowledge about advantages of breast feeding with respect to education trend (p<0.005). The main reason cited for incorrect practices was shortage of breastmilk which led to mixed feed and discontinuation of Exclusive breastfeeding.

Conclusion: Increased Involvement of the Heath care personnel’s in imparting knowledge on breastfeeding benefits to both mother and the baby would encourage and counsel the mothers for proper breastfeeding practices.