Knowledge and attitude regarding breastfeeding among antenatal mothers.

Abstract

Breastfeeding knowledge and attitude are absolutely necessary for antenatal mothers. This study aimed to assess antenatal mothers' breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes and their association with sociodemographic characteristics. This cross-sectional study was done among antenatal mothers using semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Twenty-four knowledge-related questions scored one mark for each correct response and zero for incorrect. Scores achieved between 17-24, 9-16, and 0-8 were grouped as adequate, average, and inadequate knowledge, respectively. For assessing attitude, on the Iowa Infant Feeding Attitudes Scale, 17 questions were graded on a 5-point Likert scale ranging from 1 to 5. Scores achieved between 70-85, 49-69, and 17-48 were grouped as positive about breastfeeding, neutral, and positive about formula feeding, respectively. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to analyze data. The p-value = 0.040). Breastfeeding knowledge was inadequate in more than one-third of the expectant women which signifies the importance of scaling up the counseling about the advantages and management of breastfeeding.