Breastfeeding and Working Mother: Knowledge, Attitude and Practice in the Context of Healthcare Settings in Bangladesh
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58425/jphs.v4i1.379Keywords:
Breastfeeding, working mothers, knowledge-attitude-practice (KAP), healthcare settings, BangladeshAbstract
Background: Breastfeeding is universally recognized as the optimal infant nutrition, providing essential nutrients and immunological protection. Despite its benefits, breastfeeding rates remain suboptimal among working mothers, particularly in healthcare settings. In Bangladesh, while breastfeeding initiation is nearly universal, exclusive breastfeeding rates drop significantly after four months due to workplace challenges and cultural practices.
Aim: This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of breastfeeding among working mothers in healthcare settings in Bangladesh.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 working mothers from three hospitals in Barisal, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires adapted from FAO guidelines, assessing socio-demographic characteristics, breastfeeding knowledge (8 items), attitudes (10 items), and practices (5 items). Ethical clearance was obtained, and confidentiality was maintained throughout the study. Statistical analysis included descriptive measures (mean, SD, percentages).
Results: Participants had a mean age of 32.08 (±6.30) years, with 72% in nuclear families. The mean breastfeeding duration was 10.32 (±6.38) months, falling short of the WHO recommendations. Knowledge scores were moderate (mean 76.5%), with gaps in awareness of breastfeeding's role in preventing diarrhea (35% correct) and dietary practices to enhance lactation (25% accurate). Attitudes were favorable (mean score 81.4%), though 48% endorsed pre-lacteal feeds. Practice scores were lowest (mean 52.1%), with only 20% receiving lactation counseling, 50% using pre-lacteal feeds, and 40% not breastfeeding on demand.
Conclusion: While working mothers demonstrated good breastfeeding knowledge and positive attitudes, practices were suboptimal due to cultural traditions and inadequate workplace support.
Recommendation: Interventions should include lactation counseling, workplace policies (lactation breaks, daycare), and community education to address misconceptions and improve breastfeeding practices.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Sangita Rani Mitra, Shah-Alam Bhuiyan, Israt Jahan, Abul Hossain Sikder, Mahfuja Begum, Nazmunnahar Happy
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