Assessment of Knowledge Regarding Exclusive Breastfeeding among Mothers in a Metropolitan City

Abstract

Breastfeeding serves as a vital health intervention, offering multifaceted benefits for both mothers and infants. The purpose of this study was to outline breastfeeding-related practices and determine the prevalence of mothers having sufficient knowledge about exclusive breastfeeding. Conducted at an Anganwadi Centre in a metropolitan city, the six-month descriptive cross-sectional study involved 121 mothers selected through simple random sampling. Data on knowledge levels linked to exclusive breastfeeding were gathered by face-to-face interviews using a pre-designed questionnaire.

Results revealed that only 50.4% of mothers demonstrated adequate knowledge of the assessed topics, and less than half received breastfeeding counselling during antenatal care. Knowledge gaps were identified in various areas, including health benefits for mothers and infants and colostrum administration. The study underscores the need for comprehensive breastfeeding education during routine antenatal care, with a particular focus on improving counselling rates.

Despite limitations such as the relatively small sample size and potential underestimation of counselling rates based on mothers' reports, the findings emphasize the critical role of closing knowledge gaps in promoting optimal breastfeeding practices. Strategies for improvement include integrating lactation consultants into antenatal clinics, training healthcare staff, and instituting standardized counselling models.

In conclusion, enhancing breastfeeding education and counselling is pivotal for empowering mothers to make informed feeding decisions. This study contributes valuable insights to public health programming, advocating for targeted interventions to bridge knowledge disparities and support mothers in achieving their breastfeeding goals.