Browsing by Author "Walker, Sonja Lynn"

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    The effect of a breastfeeding intervention program on the knowledge of pregnant women at the Bishop Lavis clinic.
    (University of the Western Cape, 2001) Walker, Sonja Lynn; Daniels, Felicity
    Introduction: Breastfeeding is an important child survival strategy. Many mothers choose not to breastfeed their babies or do so for only a short duration, despite the undisputed physiological, social, psychological, economic, immunological and nutritional benefits to mother and infant. The study was conducted in Bishop Lavis, a low socio-economic community in the City of Tygerberg, Cape Town. Poverty, unemployment and inadequate housing are a few problems which this community faces. Aim: To implement an antenatal group breastfeeding education programme and evaluate the knowledge gained by participants. Methodology: A quasi-experimental design was used. Before-after studies were used to measure the knowledge of breastfeeding before and after the implementation of the breastfeeding education programme. Study population: All primigravidas attending the Bishop Lavis antenatal clinic. Sampling: A total of 58 primigravidas were sampled, using systematic random sampling over a four-week period. Data Analysis: Statistical analyses were carried out using the Statistical Analysis Software. Means, percentages and p- values were calculated. Results: The results proved that there was a significant increase in the participants' knowledge after the breastfeeding education education. Conclusion: There is a need to educate all pregnant women regarding the advantages of breastfeeding and to establish permanent breastfeeding education and support systems.