Breastfeeding knowledge and attitude among mothers of infants aged 6 months to 7 months at tertiary care hospital: A cross sectional survey

Background: Breastfeeding is a vital public health intervention that significantly improves infant survival, growth, and development. Despite adequate awareness, breastfeeding practices are often influenced by maternal attitudes and socio-demographic factors. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude of mothers of infants aged 6-7 months toward breastfeeding and to evaluate the influence of selected demographic variables on knowledge, attitude, and breastfeeding practices in a tertiary care hospital setting. Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 110 mothers of infants aged 6-7 months attending the well-baby clinic and paediatric outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured knowledge questionnaire and the Iowa Infant Feeding Attitudes Scale (IIFAS). Socio-demographic variables and breastfeeding practices, including exclusive breastfeeding and early initiation, were recorded. Data were analysed using SPSS version 20, and associations were assessed using the chi-square test. Results: The majority of mothers (77.27%) demonstrated good knowledge of breastfeeding; however, most (70%) exhibited a neutral attitude toward breastfeeding, with only 27.27% showing a positive attitude. Knowledge of breastfeeding was significantly associated with maternal age, educational status, and family income (p