Determinants of pre–lacteal feeding among mothers of newborn: Evidence from a Hospital based cross–sectional at district Mahendragarh, Haryana

Dr Priti Verma; Dr Pavan Pandey; Dr Avinash Thakur

Volume : VI, Issue : III, March - 2016

Determinants of pre–lacteal feeding among mothers of newborn: Evidence from a Hospital based cross–sectional at district Mahendragarh, Haryana

Dr Priti Verma, Dr Pavan Pandey, Dr Avinash Thakur

Abstract :

Background: Despite mass media campaign about the importance of exclusive east feeding and colostrum, pre lacteal feeding is still the common social norms across different parts of India. There are several factors which hinders early initiation and exclusive eastfeeding. Present study examined the factors associated with pre–lacteal feeding among mothers of newborn living in a district of Haryana, India. Material & Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in 3 hospitals of Haryana district for the duration of six months in the year 2013. Data from 576 mother– new born pair was collected. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to examine factors associated with pre–lacteal feeding. Results: During the first 24 hours after birth, 209 (36.9%) of the newborns were given pre–lacteal feeding in various form. Most common type of pre–lacteal feed was animal milk (56.9 %) followed by holy water (22.5 %). Factors increasing the odds of pre–lacteal feeding included delivery by caesarean section, living in joint family, first time mothers and delivering a male child. Conclusions: Reducing the prevalence of pre–lacteal feeding can be achieved by improving knowledge and confidence of mothers and family members through appropriate counseling and support.