A study of breastfeeding practices among working women in urban area of Davangere, Karnataka, India

Authors

  • Ashoka A. Department of Paediatrics, JJM Medical College, Davangere, Karnataka, India
  • Shwetha J. H. Department of Pathology, SSIMS & RC, Davangere, Karnataka, India
  • Mahesh T. K. Consultant Paediatrician, Malavalli, Mandya, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-3291.ijcp20161056

Keywords:

EBF, Working mother

Abstract

Background: Amongst the many determinants that influence the exclusivity of breastfeeding, the working status of the mother is the probably the most important. Objective of the study was to determine breastfeeding practices among working women in urban area and the factors affecting exclusive breastfeeding (EBF).

Methods: This prospective study included 50 working mother and their babies attending routine immunization at MCH clinic in Davangere. Information on their breastfeeding practices was obtained using a pretested, structured questionnaire during every follow up visit. Data was entered in excel sheet and analyzed using SPSS software. Results were expressed in terms of percentages and proportions.

Results: The mean age of the study subjects was 29.7years. Majority of them were teachers, had availed leave up to 135 days. Around 60% had initiated breastfeeding within an hour, 51.06% mothers had given Exclusive Breast Feeding (EBF) to their infants up to 18 weeks. Majority of them opined that short duration of leave (90%) and non-availability of crèche (94%) were the main barriers for exclusive breastfeeding.

Conclusions: Majority of the working mothers had initiated breastfeeding within an hour and had exclusively breastfed their children up to 18weeks and none of practiced bottle feeding. The duration of exclusive breastfeeding was related to the duration of leave availed.

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Published

2016-12-28

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Original Research Articles