A Cross-sectional Study on Nutritional Status of Pregnant and Lactating Mothers of Shuklaphanta Municipality of Kanchanpur District of Far-west Nepal

Abstract

Adequate nutrients are pivotal to growth and development and vital for our immune system to function at its best. Especially during pregnancy and lactation, energy needs increase along with the greater requirement for macronutrients and micronutrients to support fetal growth and reduce birth defects in newborns. The cornerstone of a child's survival, growth, and development is good nutrition. Children that are properly nourished perform better academically, socially, and physically in their communities. In the midst of disease and catastrophe, they are considerably stronger. Aims: The objective of this research was to determine the nutritional health of pregnant and lactating women, as well as the risk factors that may be associated with it. Methodology: The study area was Shuklaphanta municipality of Kanchanpur district of far west Nepal. Fully structured questionnaire was used in this study. This is a cross-sectional study having the sample of 227 respondents. Fully structured questionnaire was used in the study. Findings: As a key finding regarding the BMI almost 47.1% were under nourished which is huge amount. Similarly, regarding the MUAC 29.1% were under nourished and almost 27.8% of the respondents were at the risk. These factors might be matter of concern for the municipality. Almost 70.1% of the respondents were having very good level of knowledge and the significant association was seen among the smoking, fluid intake, health facilities visit, food consumption patterns. Conclusion: the nutritional status of pregnant women and lactating mothers in the Shuklaphanta municipality is matter of concern.