Paediatric Residents' Perception of Breastfeeding amidst Covid 19

ABSTRACT

Objective: This study was conducted to determine paediatric residents' perception, beliefs, and attitudes towards breastfeeding particularly by COVID positive mothers and to assess the need for a breastfeeding teaching program. Study Design: A descriptive cross-sectional study Place and Duration of Study This study was conducted over 1 months (15 October 2021-15 November 2021) among the paediatric residents from different hospitals in Rawalpindi/ Islamabad. Materials and Methods: A total of 70 paediatric residents were included in the study. A self-Administered online questionnaire was sent via email, comprising 19 items related to breastfeeding and its implications during the COVID 19 pandemic. Results were analysed on SPSS 20. Results: Out of 70 residents, 63 (90%) responses were obtained. Most of the residents were supportive of breastfeeding and had a good perception as 100% of participants supported that breast milk is an ideal food for babies. However, huge uncertainty was noted in the answers to questions regarding breastfeeding in mothers with COVID-19 infection as only a few (12.7%) residents believed that mothers with active COVID 19 infection can breastfeed their baby. There was no difference among first and second year residents and third and fourth year residents (0.5) Conclusion: The participants' perception, beliefs, and overall knowledge about breast feeding is satisfactory but regarding breastfeeding in mothers who had COVID-19 infection is inadequate. The authors' recommendation is to have more emphasis on support & promotion of breastfeeding in paediatric residency programs across Pakistan. © 2022 Journal of Islamic International Medical College. All rights reserved.