Predictors of Breastfed Mother's knowledge, Attitude and Practice during COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Background : The COVID-19 pandemic has posed several challenges to breastfeeding ( BF ) mothers . Aim : to assess Knowledge , attitude and practice of breast-fed mothers during pandemic of COVID 19. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 208 mothers-infant dyads attended to primary health office for vaccination and outpatient department of different children's hospitals in Mansoura, Egypt. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data about COVID-19 in general as well as knowledge, attitude and practice of BF during COVID-19 pandemic. Results: The linear regression revealed that mother’s education is an independent predictor of COVID-19 general knowledge and attitude scores. Mothers’ work and general knowledge are independent predictors of knowledge BF during COVID-19. Mothers’ education is an independent predictor of attitude score. Knowledge BF during COVID-19 and attitude are independent predictors of practice score. Conclusion: Mother’s education and work are independent predictors of knowledge BF during COVID-19, their attitude and practice. Recommendation: Ongoing educational program for mothers about COVID-19 and breast feeding