Assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practices among mothers regarding breastfeeding at tertiary care public hospital, Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47264/idea.ajset/1.1.%25xKeywords:
Breastfeeding, Exclusive breastfeeding, Maternal knowledge, Maternal attitudes, Breastfeeding practices, Infant nutrition, Maternal health, Infant healthAbstract
Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the optimal source of nutrition for infants and provides essential nutrients and protective antibodies that support healthy growth, development, and immunity. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding with appropriate complementary feeding for up to two years or beyond. This study aimed to assess mothers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the benefits and practices of breastfeeding. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Pediatric Department of Hayatabad Medical Complex among 102 mothers selected through convenience sampling. Mothers within the childbearing age range were included, while those who refused participation, were seriously ill, or were outside the specified age range were excluded. The findings indicated that 52.9% of mothers had poor knowledge of breastfeeding, whereas 47.1% had good knowledge. Regarding attitudes, 59.8% demonstrated a neutral attitude, 19.6% had a negative attitude, and 20.6% had a positive attitude. In terms of breastfeeding practices, 69.6% of mothers demonstrated good practices, while 29.4% had poor practices. The study concludes that although most mothers reported good breastfeeding practices, substantial gaps in knowledge and attitudes remain. Strengthening breastfeeding education, counseling, and awareness programs is recommended to improve mothers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices and promote optimal breastfeeding outcomes.
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