Initiation of Breastfeeding Among Mothers Delivering at a Tertiary Hospital in Lahore

A cross-sectional study

Abstract

ABSTRACT:

Background: The health of the newborn relies heavily on breastfeeding. Timely initiation and continuation of breastfeeding in the initial hours of birth is a predictor of continued breastfeeding. This study aimed at estimating the proportion of women who practiced timely initiation of breastfeeding at a government hospital in Lahore.

Materials and Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted over one month among 133 postnatal mothers, selected through convenience sampling; taking total population as the average number of females delivering in a month at the hospital. Timely initiation within the first hour of birth was seen with the absence of formula feeding or use of any other source of oral nutrition for the newborn.

Results: The average age of the participants was 26.2±4.5 years, and the average number of previous children was 2 with a range of 0-6. Out of a total of 133 mothers, 39 i.e. 29.3% (95% CI: 22.1% – 37.7%) practiced timely initiation. There was a significant association between mode of delivery and breastfeeding practices (p=<0.01).

Conclusion: Most mothers did not practice timely initiation of breastfeeding. Mode of delivery was significantly associated with breastfeeding practices. Strengthening counselling and support in obstetric wards is recommended

Keywords: Breast Feeding; Infant, Newborn; Postpartum Period; Mothers; Hospitals, Tertiary Care; Pakistan; Cross-Sectional Studies