Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Breast Feeding among Mothers in Postnatal Ward and in Mothers attending Immunisation Clinic in Tirunelveli Medical College Hospital, Tirunelveli

BACKGROUND: Breast feeding is an unequalled way of providing ideal food for the healthy growth and development of infants. The major causes for the mortality and morbidity among infants are malnutrition, diarrhoea, infections, lack of awareness and misconception among mothers regarding breast feeding. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of mothers regarding breast feeding. OBJECTIVES: 1. To study the knowledge, attitude and practices of breast feeding among mothers in post natal ward and in mothers attending immunization clinic, Tirunelveli Medical College, Tirunelveli. 2. To study the demographic and socio economic factors associated with breast feeding practices. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Study Design: Case series study. Study Period: 01 Oct 2018 to 30 Sep 2019. Study Population: The study population consisted of mothers in postnatal ward and mothers having a child of less than two years in immunization clinic. Sample Size: 1000. Method of Sampling: Non probability purposive sampling technique. Method of Collection of Data: Ethical clearance was obtained and permission from respective authorities was also taken. The instrument used is a predesigned and pretested semi structured questionnaire. Statistical Analysis: Proportion, Chi square test, mean, standard deviation. RESULTS: Majority of mothers had inadequate knowledge and attitude towards breast feeding. Age, education, occupation, economic status, religion and type of family were found to be significant associates of their knowledge & attitude. Among many mothers, correct Breast feeding practices were not practiced. CONCLUSION: As a long term measure, compulsory education for all children, especially the girl child and special attention to the nutritional needs of the girl child adolescents, and women have to be considered. This will go a long way in improving the breast feeding practices