The effect of a breastfeeding intervention program on the knowledge of pregnant women at the Bishop Lavis clinic.
Loading...
Date
2001
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of the Western Cape
Abstract
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.
Description
Magister Curationis - MCur
Keywords
Antenatal, Primigravidas, Education, Quasi-experimental, Barriers, Breastfeeding, Advantages, Knowledge, Exclusive, Low birth weight.