The Influence of Lactation Education toward Growth of Infants 0-6 Months in Kendari

Growth is the basis for assessing nutritional adequacy of baby. Appropriate intake of nutrition give an impact on the optimal growth. Growth of infants 0-6 months is a critical period in the first 1000 days of life and appropriate intake is exclusive breastfeeding. Breastfeeding lowers the risk of morbidity and mortality infants. This study aims to determine the effect of lactation education toward the growth of infants 0-6 months. This study design was Quasy Experiment, ie. pre-test and post-test with control group design. Samples were 28-30 weeks pregnant women, divided into three groups: 1) those who received education lactation and a modification module (n = 21), 2) a group that only received a modification module (n = 21) and 3) groups only get the MCH book (n = 20). Growth indicators were body weight and body length that measured at birth, months 1, 3 and 6. Statistical analysis using chi square, Wilcoxon test and Kruskal Wallis test. The results showed lactation education affected the baby's growth at 1, 3 and 6 months. Group 1 has an increase in length and weight of body higher than group 2 and 3. So it is very important to pregnant women and maternity lactation routinely receiveing education to improve breastfeeding practice for optimilizing infant growth