Initiation of Breastfeeding Among Mothers Delivering at a Tertiary Hospital in Lahore: A Cross-Sectional Study: Initiation of Breast Feeding
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: The health of the newborn relies heavily on breastfeeding. Timely initiation of breastfeeding in the initial hours of birth is a predictor of continued breastfeeding. Objective: This study aimed at estimating the proportion of women who practiced timely initiation of breastfeeding at a government hospital in Lahore. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Settings: Maternity ward of Lahore General Hospital, Lahore Pakistan. Duration: Six months from 1st Jan 2024 to 30th June 2024. Methods: Among 133 postnatal mothers, selected through convenience sampling; taking total population as the average number of females delivering in a month at the hospital. Timely initiation within the first hour of birth was seen with the absence of formula feeding or use of any other source of oral nutrition for the newborn. Results: The average age of the participants was 26.2±4.5 years, and the average number of previous children was 2 with a range of 0-6. Out of a total of 133 mothers, 39 i.e. 29.3% (95% CI: 22.3% – 37.6%) practiced timely initiation. There was a significant association between mode of delivery and breastfeeding practices (p=<0.01). Conclusion: Most mothers did not practice timely initiation of breastfeeding. Mode of delivery was significantly associated with breastfeeding practices. Strengthening counselling and support in obstetric wards is recommended.
Source: Annals of Punjab Medical College
Institution: Allama Iqbal Medical College
Language: English
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7220587692