Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Towards Exclusive Breastfeeding Among Lactating Mothers: Descriptive Cross Sectional Study

ABSTRACT

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is the best nutrition for children during the first six months of life. However EBF remains a challenge. Objective: The aim of the study was to assess Knowledge, Attitude and Practice towards EBF among lactating mothers. Methods: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted among 350 mothers using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire using 'recall since birth' method. Systematic random sampling was used to select the study participants and descriptive statistics were conducted. Results: Out of 350 lactating women, maximum women belonged to the age group of 26 to 30 years (31.4%). Maximum of them were from nuclear family (71.7%). 320 lactating mother (91.4%) of study participants had information about EBF. Conclusion: The majority of mothers knew about EBF and had a positive attitude towards EBF but did not know the recommended duration or that EBF is sufficient for six months. Breastfeeding counselling and health education on nutrition to the mother by health workers should be promoted.