A Cross Sectional Survey on Knowledge, Attitude and Breast-Feeding Practices among Postnatal Mothers Delivering at Tertiary Care Hospital in North India

Background: Despite benefits of breast feeding for both the infants and mothers, its prevalence has remained low worldwide. The present study was conducted to examine the knowledge and attitude towards breast feeding practices among postnatal mothers. Methodology:A cross sectional study was conducted among non-randomly selected postnatal mothers at a tertiary care hospital in North India. Data was collected through a structured online questionnaire administered on electronic tablet before discharge. Results: Among 430 females enrolled in study, majority (98.65%)of the mothers believed breast milk is best nutrition for infant. 211(95%) multipara were breastfeeders, 64 among them had breastfed for more than 2 years. Only 9 mothers had stopped BF before 6 months. However, only 301(78%) had initiated breast feeding within one hour of birth. Early initiation was higher among vaginal (50.34%) compared to Caesarean (25.7%) births. Only 40% mothers observed correct positioning and attachment of infant on breast. Higher number of antenatal visits and correct skill of latching infant on breast were significantly associated with better exclusive BF rates. 91% mothers preferred to increase suckling on breast by infant to tackle problem of inadequate breast milk output. Conclusion: Our findings showed increase knowledge and positive attitude for BF among post natal mothers delivering in hospitals. We emphasise on the importance of prenatal education to mothers and fathers on breast-feeding. We also recommend strengthening the public health education campaigns to promote breast-feeding. Keywords: Attitudes, Breast feeding, India, Infant feeding practices, Knowledge, Mothers.