BACKGROUND: Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF) should be continued for the first 6 months of child’s life with early initiation, may be continued 2 years or more (WHO). The prevalence of EBF is globally 44% (WHO), in India 63% & Tamil Nadu 55% (NFHS-5, 2019-21). EBF for 6 months is a challenge for women everywhere, especially mothers living in hilly rural areas and we need to explore the EBF practices among them.
OBJECTIVES : To estimate the prevalence of EBF & assess BF practices among mothers at the villages of Pudhur Nadu.
METHODS : Cross sectional study was conducted among the mothers, who had delivered baby in past one year at Pudhur Nadu. Simple random sampling done. Sample size was 186. Pretested questionnaire used by ASHAs (trained interviewers). Descriptive analysis done by proportions, Chi-square tests by MS Excel, Epi info 7.2.5. Permissions obtained from Ethics committee, DPH & PM.
RESULTS : 185 mothers responded, mean age 21(sd 3.7), 97.8% Hindus & 99% Scheduled Tribes. Prevalence of EBF was 71% & EBF for 6 months duration from birth was 63%. Prelacteal feed given in 13% & Colostrum in 96% children. BF initiated within 1 hour of birth was 91%. Non EBF among 1st & 2nd order children was 32% & 3rd & higher order was 14% (P 0.04). EBF among mothers had 3 or more home visits during pregnancy (P 0.01) and after delivery (P 0.02) by VHN/ASHA was twice compared to those who had less than 3 visits.
CONCLUSION : Among mothers of Pudhur Nadu, EBF is higher than expected. Further studies by in-depth interviews can be conducted as each mother’s experience of Breastfeeding is important.