IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-9-1-23829 Original Research Paper MYTHS AND PERCEPTIONS ABOUT BREAST FEEDING PRACTICES AMONG HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS' FAMILY AND RELATIVES. Naureen Kanwal Satti Dr. Dr. Ameer Ali Jamali Dr. Dr Fareeza Taskeen Mustafa Dr. January 2020 9 1 01 02 ABSTRACT

Infants physical and mental development has been strongly linked to exclusive breast feeding since ages. Breast feeding is a norm in various societies until the age of 2 years and beyond .However social barriers exist for working as well as non–working moms who have to avoid breast feeding at some point This study was aimed to understand various beliefs about colostrum and breast feeding practices among non–medical relatives, families and friends of healthcare that prevent them from adopting such a healthy practice .A web–based survey was used to collect data. Total 378 surveys were received. 93% believed in giving a pre–lacteal to the kids soon after birth. Only 55% of people had given breast milk on the very first day of the child’s birth and 50% of them were able to continue exclusive breast feeding for the first 6 months of life.32% of the parents fed their babies exclusively on artificial feed