Background : It has been already established that appropriate breast
feeding practices reduce child morbidity and mortality; improve
immunity in children besides being essential for their optimal growth
and development1
.
Objective : To evaluate the status of breast feeding practices among
the women in a selected rural area of Bangladesh.
Methodology : Descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted
between January to June 2013. A total 191 women, age between 18-
45yrs who had children below 2 years were selected purposively from
a village. Mothers were the respondents and data were collected by
face to face interview using pretested questionnaire.
Results : Socio demographic characteristics of respondents revealed
80.63% were house wife; their mean age was 23.91yrs. Most of them
were educated. Economical status was lower middle class. Exclusive
breast feeding was found among 70.68% respondents and 75.92%
mothers fed colostrums to their babies. During antenatal care 84.47%
respondents got advice on breast feeding. Within one hour after birth
56.54% mothers initiated breast feeding. Total 24.08% mothers gave
pre-lacteal feed. During child’s sickness 92.67% respondents
continued breast feeding.
Conclusion : Exclusive Breast feeding practice among rural women
which was higher than the national target. Educated mothers were
more motivated and also those who received advices on breast feeding
during antenatal care. Strengthening of Breast feeding counseling
during antenatal care is recommended to maintain sustainability.