International Journal of Medical and Health Research

Authors
Nikhilesh Nain, Yogesh N Parikh, Mitul B Kalathia, Shayamal Verma

Abstract
Since time immemorial breastfeeding has been the most common mode of initiation of feeding in infants. Breast feeding has been encouraged by all domains of society still faulty practices of feeding persist like prelacteal feeding, avoiding colostrums, not practicing exclusive feeding, and early withdrawal of feeding. This study aims at different feeding pattern among various communities, initiation of feeding in different communities, causes of faulty feeding practices, to study the establishment of complimentary feeding. Present study about feeding pattern was based on interview held of 224 mothers attending both outpatient and inpatient department of K.T children hospital Rajkot. Various factors affecting continuation of breast feeding, early withdrawal of feeding, starting of complimentary feeding was studied. Study was divided into three main headings prelacteal feeding, breast feeding, and complimentary feeding. Conclusion: community health education is must regarding prelacteal feeds, breast feeding and complimentary feeding. Literacy level should be raise among mothers. Support groups should be formed to help mothers in initiating and maintaining feeding.