Knowledge, attitude, and behavior of pregnant women on early initiation of breastfeeding

Abstract

Background Infant mortality rate is an indicator of the degree of health in society. In Indonesia, the infant mortality rate remains high, with most deaths occurring in the first 24 hours of life. Breastfeeding has been shown to reduce infant mortality, especially if undertaken in the first hour of life. This practice is known as early initiation of breastfeeding (EIB). According to various studies, EIB implementation may be influen ced by many factors such as knowledge, attitude, behavior, and health care facilities. Objective To assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and behavior of pregnant women towards EIB. Methods We conducted a descriptive study using questionnaires on 74 pregnant women in the outpatient clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Dustira Hospital, Cimahi, West Java, Indonesia from November to December 2012. Results Out of 74 respondents, 21 % had a good level of knowledge on EIB, 23% had an adequate knowledge, and 56% had less than adequate knowledge on EIB. A positive attitude towards EIB was found in 65% of the respondents, while 35% had a negative attitude. With regards to behavior conducive to EIB, 8% of respondents had good behavior, 57% had moderate behaviot; and 35%had less than adequate behavior. Conclusion Majority of pregnant women have less than adequate knowledge on EIB, a positive attitude towards EIB, and moderate to less than adequate behavior conducive to EIB.

Keywords

• early initiation of breastfeeding, know ledge, attitude, behavior