A Descriptive Study to Assess the Knowledge and Practices Regarding Lactational Cues Among Post Natal Mothers in a Selected Hospital in View of Developing an Informational Pamphlet
Nilofar Salim1*, Dr. J. Sathya shenbega Priya2, Anju Eldho3, Athulya K K3, Greeshma P J3, Jesna T A3, Mintu Manoj3, Shahabana K Shaji3, Vismaya E3, Vishnu Shaji3
Abstract
Background: In India, prevalence of effective breastfeeding techniques was only 55.0% [1]. It’s because of no formal education and not receiving counselling during the pregnancy or postnatal period. Even though breast feeding has become more prominent with the proposals of WHO, UNICEF, and other NGOs, studies shows that only 41.5% of Indian mothers-initiated breastfeeding within 1 hour post birth [2].
Objectives: The Primary objectives of this study was to assess the knowledge of postnatal mothers on lactational cuesand to assess the practices among postnatal mothers regarding lactational cues. The secondary objective is to provide informational pamphlet on lactational cues among postnatal mothers
Methods: The descriptive study was conducted among 50 postnatal mothers from selected institutions in Kannur district. A Structured questionnaire on knowledge regarding lactational cues and aself-reported observation checklist on breast-feeding practices was used to assess the knowledge and practices regarding lactational cues. Then the data was collected, analyzed and entered into Excel.
Results: Majority 35(70%) of post-natal mothers have good knowledge, 8(16%) of post-natal mothers have very good knowledge, 7(14%) have average knowledge and none of the mothers have poor knowledge and practice regarding lactational cues. There was no significant association between the level of knowledge and demographic variables.
Conclusions: The study revealed that the postnatal mothers have good knowledge regarding lactational cues.
Keywords:
knowledge, lactational cues, breast-feeding practices, post-natalmothers
