A Cross-Sectional Study to Estimate the Proportion of Early Initiation and Exclusive Breastfeeding Practices in Rural Field Practice Area, Mysore

Abstract

Introduction: Breastfeeding is the healthiest and easily accessible nutrient to the infants Malnutrition is more prevalentin India and inappropriate feeding practices are the one of the reason. So the current study is conducted to estimate theprevalence of early initiation and exclusive beastfeeding practices and factors influencing on these practices.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 198 mothers of children less than 24 months in the field practicearea of Mysore Medical College and Research Institute, Mysore by using simple random sampling method during March2015 to August 2015 by using pretested and semi-structured questionnaire. In our study we found that 70.2% mothersinitiated breastfeeding within 1 hour of delivery, the most common reason for delay was LSCS, 14.6% mothers practicethe prelacteal feed, 92.9% mothers fed colostrum, exclusive breastfeeding(EBF) was practiced in 105 (53%) mothers themost common reason for non-EBF was lack of knowledge 78 (47.6%). Gender, fathers education, socio-economic statusand number of antenatal visits had an influence on breastfeeding practices.Conclusion: Majority of the women not practiced EBF. The knowledge regarding proper breastfeeding practices should beemphasized on each antenatal and postnatal visits. Improved socio-economic status can improve breastfeeding practices.