Knowledge and Practices Regarding Breastfeeding Among Childbearing-Age Women in a Teaching Hospital, Lahore
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61919/ntzxsz59Keywords:
breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, maternal knowledge, infant nutrition, PakistanAbstract
Background: Breastfeeding is a critical determinant of infant survival, yet suboptimal knowledge and misconceptions continue to undermine exclusive breastfeeding practices in many low- and middle-income countries, including Pakistan. Objective: To assess breastfeeding knowledge and practices among mothers aged 20–35 years in a teaching hospital in Lahore. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 130 mothers using a structured questionnaire assessing demographics, breastfeeding knowledge, and practice behaviors. Knowledge scores were categorized as good, average, or poor. Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses, including chi-square tests, t-tests, and odds ratios, were used to evaluate associations between knowledge and practices. Results: The mean knowledge score was 7.8 ± 2.0 (range 0–15), with 51.5% classified as having poor knowledge and only 13.8% demonstrating good knowledge. Higher education level was significantly associated with better knowledge (p < 0.001). Adherence to recommended breastfeeding practices was moderate (mean practice score 56.8 ± 11.4). Good knowledge was significantly associated with avoidance of bottle use, avoidance of giving water to infants, and exclusive breastfeeding for six months (p < 0.05 for all). Conclusion: Mothers exhibited substantial gaps in breastfeeding knowledge, which were reflected in suboptimal practices. Strengthened breastfeeding education and structured counseling are needed to improve maternal adherence to recommended practices.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Ayesha Iqbal, Iqra Anwar, Jerry Zahid, Faisal Nadeem, Warda Tu Nisa (Author)
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