Effectiveness of educational intervention on breastfeeding among primi pregnant women- a longitudinal study

Abstract Background Breast milk is a unique source of nutrition. All mothers can adequately and appropriately breastfeed when they have accurate information and skilled practical help. Objectives 1. To assess the knowledge and attitude of breastfeeding among primi Pregnant women attending antenatal clinic. 2. To assess the effect of educational intervention on knowledge, attitude and practice among women after delivery. Materials and methods a prospective intervention study was conducted involving 70 primigravidae women attending the antenatal clinic of JSS Hospital, Mysuru. Baseline knowledge and attitude towards Breastfeeding was assessed, and socio-demographic details were collected. Breastfeeding Education was given through a printed booklet in local language for this study purpose. The women were followed up for three times post-delivery, within one week, at the end of 3rd month and 6th month of delivery. Results Pre-intervention knowledge was found to be poor in all the participants; the statistically significant difference in knowledge and attitude level was found between three follow up. After the delivery, 58.6% of mothers initiated breastfeeding within 1 h, 17.1% gave prelacteals and 90% of mothers fed colostrum. At six month exclusive breastfeeding, complementary feeding and bottle feeding was followed by 45.7%, 48.6% and 35.7% of mothers respectively. Conclusion knowledge of breastfeeding benefits and correct method has to be given to the women during pregnancy itself to empower and encourage them to follow the exclusive Breastfeeding and proper infant feeding practices.