A study to assess the effectiveness of antenatal lactation education on knowledge and breastfeeding practices among antenatal mothers

Objectives • To assess the knowledge of antenatal mothers regarding breast feeding. • To assess the practices of antenatal mothers regarding breast feeding techniques Research Method: In this study one group pre-test and post-test design was used .Non- probability convenient sampling technique was used for the study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. To assess the practices a LATCH scale was used. Result: Breastfeeding is a very integral part of building a child’s immunity. The pre-test knowledge of the mother’s was found to be 45.1 whereas post test knowledge was 50. The practice of the mothers before the teaching was 35.3 and post teaching the practice improved to 48.4. P value was found to be zero. There was significant increase in the knowledge and practice too of the antenatal mothers. The mothers who breastfed their infants had a low risk of developing breast cancer, ovarian cancer, Type 2 Diabetes and High blood pressure. Conclusion: Breast milk is composed of many essential substances for optimal growth and development, including carbohydrates, fats, proteins in breast milk are especially important during critical development of brain, gut and immune development (http://www.who.int> health-topics). Despite these overwhelming benefits for both mother and baby, the rates of breastfeeding are still not optimal. We should effectively counsel and educate the mothers regarding the properties and the way it nourishes and protects the infants from endangering diseases.