Factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months of life in Northern India

Abstract

Background: Breast milk is a complete food for growing children until 6 months of age, and mothers play a important role in their growth and development. So, promoting their attitude towards the benefits of breastfeeding ensures guarantee child health in the future. The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge and practice of Breast feeding with their determinants among mothers in Jammu.Methods: In this cross‑sectional study, 200 mothers attending the well‑baby clinics in Jammu from June 2017 to Febuary 2018 were selected, data was collected by face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire.Results: Of the 200 women, 70% were 21–30 years of age and 61% of mothers have studied only up to primary school. Majority of deliveries (80%) took place in government run hospitals. 75% of the infants were born out of normal delivery. 47.5% of mothers did not feed colostrum to their babies. Breastfeeding was initiated in only 13% of babies within one hour after birth. 52.5% babies were fed with pre-lacteals. In 7% of babies bathing was done immediately after birth.Conclusions: Maternal knowledge and attitude towards exclusive Breast feeding was moderate. It is essential to plan for mothers by officials in order to promote breast-feeding in the first 6 months of baby's life to enhance positive maternal attitude in this regard.