Abstract:
Breastfeeding is more significant factor to enhance the immunity level among infants especially within first six months of their age. It also helps to prevent the infants from different kinds of diseases in early childhood. In Pakistani rural context, traditional practices of breastfeeding and use of supported liquids is normally observed and reported. Moreover, it is highly encouraged by the elders of the family especially among the females of the extended, joint and joint-extended family system. This study was focused to explore the current practices of breastfeeding and use of supported liquids in rural areas within first six month of age of infants. The study was conducted under the supervision of Pakistan Association of Anthropology (PAA) based in Islamabad. The data collection was done in four different villages of Tehsil Gujrat, including Shah Bollah, Hunjra, Jalal Pur Sobatian and Chak Boola. Structured questionnaire was developed to collect information on breastfeeding practices as well as the use of water and other supported liquids. After pre-test, the tool was amended accordingly and identified errors and weaknesses were removed. The basic tool of social investigation contained all vitals on bio-statistics. The Questionnaires were administered with the help of experiences female enumerators in the domain of mother and child health. For further insights and in-depth purviews, intensive focused group discussion (FGD) technique was adopted. FGDs were conducted by the field supervisors with the help of group facilitators. Data show the major inputs and cooperation from the respondents of the age group of 27-30 years during the research. Among the 195 respondents (93.85% cases), lactating mothers fed their child. The results further reveal the figure that 43.72% of the respondents fed their child within first hour after child delivery. The use of gutti was reported in 58.97% cases. In 46.15% cases, respondents told that they used water and gave other liquids (including honey and arq) to their infants. Elders especially Mother-in-law advised the females for breastfeeding which made up 31.79% of the total sample selected. The breastfeeding is culturally supported due to which the prevalence rate is high among the respondents. The breastfeeding commences within one hour of child birth. The use of supported liquids including gutti, honey, rose extract and formula milk is also customary among females. The elder female members of family are keen and encouraging the breastfeed practices.
Page(s):
483-487
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Science International, Volume: 26, Issue: 1, Year: 2014