“FACTORS AFFECTING INITIATION OF BREASTFEEDING IN LBW AND VLBW BABIES; GROWTH OUTCOMES AT 6 MONTHS OF CORRECTED AGE WITH REFERENCE TO KMC”

Abstract

LBW infants has higher risk of early infectious disease and growth retardation during infancy and childhood. Advances in NICU in perinatal care has improved survival of LBWto prevent long-term complications. Feeding practices like exclusive breastfeeding along with KMC support child. The objective is to determine factors affecting initiation of breastfeeding in LBW, VLBW babies and describe role of KMC regarding growth at 6 months of corrected age. Methodology:This is prospective study conducted on infants admitted at NICU and followed up for 6months. Parameters like weight, length and head circumference were done to all admitted babies in NICU. KMC was given one group. Results: In our study, 90 babies divided as two groups, Group A (45 babies)- KMC is given; Group B (45 babies)-KMC not given. Mean Birth weight in Group A(1.77kg) and Group B (1.58kg) respectively. Main factors affecting initiation of breastfeeding in babies were LSCS (63.3% and 48.9%), RDS (55.6% and 38.9%) respectively. Rates of exclusive breastfeeding is signicantly increased in Group A (92.2%) than Group B (72.2%). At 6 months of corrected gestational age, mean weight in Group A (5.68kg) is signicantly more than in Group B (4.88kg). Conclusion: LBW babies are more prone for growth retardation, can be prevented by early initiation of breastfeeding and good newborn care. Factors affecting initiation of breastfeeding in LBWand VLBWbabies are LSCS, RDS. KMC care helps to increase exclusive breastfeeding rates and improve growth outcome