Perception and Practice of Sub-Himalayan Region Mothers for Breastfeeding: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract

Abstract Background: Breast milk is an ideal food for neonates, which is also beneficial for mothers. Nowadays, modern mothers choose not to breastfeed their babies. The World Health Organization also recommends continuous breastfeeding of babies for up to 2 years. The present study focuses on assessing the perception and practice of mothers for exclusive breastfeeding in the sub-Himalayan region of India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among postnatal mothers who were attending pediatric outpatient departments (OPDs) and immunization clinics at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, India. Interview schedules were conducted to assess knowledge and skills, and data related to breastfeeding were collected from 210 mothers. Purposive sampling techniques were used to select each participant. Results: The mean age of mothers was 26.8 years, 56% had previous experience of breastfeeding, 76% had a cesarean delivery, and 70% had started breastfeeding within 1 h. More than half (53%) of the mothers had inadequate knowledge of breastfeeding. On the Iowa Scale, only 8% of mothers reported a very positive attitude toward breastfeeding. On the Bristol scale, 81% of mothers reported that they were following good breastfeeding practices. Conclusions: The study concludes that sub-Himalayan mothers have inadequate knowledge of breastfeeding, but their practices are still suboptimal. We recommend more public health awareness programs to promote breastfeeding in this region.