July 2026, Volume 4, Issue 7

Author

S. Gurulakshmy, S. Balabaskaran and K. Devimeenakshi

Abstract

Background: Early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) within one hour of birth is essential for optimal neonatal growth and survival. Despite adequate antenatal (AN) care, the rates of EIBF remain suboptimal in India. Effective antenatal counselling may improve breastfeeding practices and promote timely initiation. Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics of a tertiary care teaching hospital. A total of 220 pregnant women were included, with 110 mothers in the intervention group receiving breastfeeding counselling and 110 mothers in the control group receiving routine care. Information regarding maternal characteristics, antenatal visits, mode of delivery, knowledge of EIBF, and timing of breastfeeding initiation was collected and analysed. Results: Among mothers in the intervention group, 80 (72.7%) initiated breastfeeding within one hour of birth compared to 56 (50.9%) in the control group. Adequate knowledge regarding EIBF was observed among 105 (95.5%) mothers in the intervention group compared to 51 (46.3%) mothers in the control group. The common reasons for delayed initiation of breastfeeding were lack of awareness, perceived inadequate breast milk secretion, and administration of pre-lacteal feeds. Conclusion: Antenatal counselling provided prior to the onset of labour significantly improved maternal knowledge regarding EIBF and increased the proportion of mothers initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth. Simple and cost-effective interventions such as focused antenatal breastfeeding counselling may help improve early breastfeeding practices and contribute to better neonatal health outcomes.