Knowledge, Attitudes and Sources of Information on Breastfeeding among Pregnant Mothers
- Author:
Ay Eeng Tan
;
Wai Kwong Choong
;
Pooi Yan Leong
;
Wei Mui Ng
;
Soon Leong Yong
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Breastfeeding, knowledge, attitude, antenatal class
- From:Medicine and Health
2008;3(1):30-37
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
This is a cross-sectional study on 218 pregnant mothers in an urban government Hospital.
The study aimed to assess knowledge, attitudes and sources of information on
breastfeeding. The results could be utilised to promote breastfeeding. Almost all the
respondents (96.8%) intended to breastfeed their newborns. Most of them (74.8%) were
knowledgeable about breastfeeding i.e. colostrum and breast milk was the best food, good
for resistance against disease and allergy, filling up stomach easily, helpful in teeth
development and maternal recovery after birth, increased bonding, was easy and
economical. The two main misconceptions were mothers would stop breastfeeding when
infant or mother was sick, and giving clear fluid to the exclusively breastfed infants to
prevent dehydration. Most mothers (83.9%) responded positively towards breastfeeding i.e. it was easier than infant formula, had no negative effect on marital relationship or
family care, would commence breastfeeding straight after delivery, agreeable to the
banning of bottles and teats in hospital and they would not stop breastfeeding even if
husband discouraged them. Only 56.9% of the mothers believed they could breastfeed
their babies with modesty anywhere. The main sources of information were attained from
the mass media (34.9%), antenatal class (32.1%) and other mothers with breastfeeding experiences.
- Full text:P020160928369613880796.pdf
