Breast feeding assessment in early neonatal period

Abstract

Background: Breast feeding will have a profound impact on child’s survival, health, nutrition and development. Optimal breastfeeding practices can save lives of more than 1.5 million under five children every year. Therefore, adequate breast feeding in new-borns is important for proper growth & development. The objective of the study was to assess the breast feeding adequacy for early neonates using the UNICEF breastfeeding assessment tool and to provide early and appropriate intervention for breast feeding inadequacy. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the post natal wards of 2 hospitals i.e., Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences Hospital and Corporation Referral Hospital, Bangalore, India. 234 mothers and infants were included in the study. Breast feeding assessment was done using UNICEF assessment tool and appropriate intervention was provided. Results: The present study showed that 12.2% and 6.4% of mothers from KIMS and corporation referral hospital respectively had inadequate breast feeding. All the mothers were given health education regarding correct feeding practices. Conclusions: UNICEF breast feeding assessment tool is an easy and good indicator to assess the breast feeding in early neonates. Assessment of breast feeding during early neonatal period is essential to intervene at the earliest possible, if there are any problems with regards to milk secretion, feeding and sucking practices.