Knowledge, attitude and practice of mothers and prospective mothers in neonatal care and utilization of perinatal care services

Abstract

Background: The present study was done with the aim to study existing knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) about neonatal care, perinatal care and its services, among mothers (pregnant and lactating mothers).Methods: This cross-sectional study was done among 624 pregnant women and in mothers of newborn in both rural and urban areas around Vijayawada during the period from October 2015 to November 2017. A structured questionnaire reflecting KAP about neonatal care and perinatal care services was used in the study. The collected data was placed in a proforma and analysed.Results: Rural (53.8%) and urban (46.2%) mothers are equally represented in the present study. There is a slight preponderance of lactating mothers (52.2%). Most of the mothers are homemakers (82.1%) and belong to nuclear families (90.1%). There is a considerable deficiency in the knowledge nearly 45% ad practices nearly 40%, related to the number of ANC’s. The proportion of mothers receiving baby’s immunization advice from obstetrician is 18.5% and from paediatrician is 26.4%. Neonatal infection prevention was not advised in 71.3% of mothers and 23.5% mothers receive advice from obstetrician and 19.1% from paediatrician. The practice of staring first breast feed within one hour is not implemented about 88% of mothers. Nearly 30% of the mothers are not keeping the baby warm and nearly 90% of the mothers are not aware of KMC.Conclusions: The findings of the study conclude that there is a need for systematic and planned health education by the paediatrician and obstetrician to increase the KAP among mothers about neonatal health care.