Assessment of knowledge of mothers regarding benefits of exclusive breast feeding in mother and children: a hospital based study

Abstract

Background: Breastfeeding, a component of primary health care has been identified world over as greatest protection of child health. Irrespective of the fact that breastfeeding in India is universal, psychological barrier still exist in early breastfeeding. Hence a study was conducted to find benefits of breastfeeding for mothers and for their child . Objectives of the study were to study benefits of breast feeding in mothers and to study benefits of exclusive breast feeding among children Methods: The study was conducted in Geetanjali Medical College and Hospital and its urban and rural health centres. 500 women who had nursed in last 5 years were interviewed using structured questionnaire. Results: 500 mothers were interviewed over a period of 6 months.31% were from semi urban, 52% population was from the urban area, 17% were from rural.72 percent mothers initiated breast feeding on the first day with 83% feeding their new born colostrum . Conclusions: This study emphasises that mother should be educated and motivated for exclusive breastfeeding their babies for 6 months and continue breastfeeding till 2 years. The benefits of breastfeeding for mothers should be explained for this purpose.