Perceived barriers for mothers to practice appropriate complementary feeding of infant in district Gilgit
Date of Award
2018
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Health Policy & Management (MSc Health Policy & Mgmt)
Department
Community Health Sciences
Abstract
Infants are at higher risk of malnutrition after six months of age, hence it is important to start appropriate complementary feeding to fulfil all nutritional requirements since the breast milk is not sufficient. It is extensively recognized in many studies that mothers play pivotal role in defining the dietary requirement of their children(1). Therefore, the objective of the study is to gain insight into various factors which hinder practice of introducing appropriate complementary feeding of infant. Study objectives Following are the objectives of the study a) To identify the existing complementary feeding practices among mothers. b) To explore the factors perceived by mothers as barriers to feeding the appropriate food to their babies. Methodology The study has used Qualitative exploratory research design. The in-depth interview (IDI) questionnaire and Focus Group Discussion (FGDs) guides were developed and used for quality data collection in Danyore union council of Gilgit during the period of July to August 2018. The sampling strategy was purposive sampling and study participants were selected based on the eligibility criteria. All interviews and discussions were audio recorded, transcribed and translated into English. Results: The analysis of qualitative data has identified that lack of knowledge, time constraints, need to rejoin the work responsibilities at the end of three months, cultural and traditional practices, lack of support from health care providers, financial constraints and poor access to issues due to remote area were the main barriers for mothers in Danyore Gilgit to practice appropriate complementary feeding practices. Conclusion: In conclusion, this qualitative exploratory study has obtained very important information of local complementary feeding practices and factors of that restrict to practice correctly. The study findings can be used to plan public health interventions to decrease poor nutritional outcomes and associated mortality. Many studies have identified that the intervention like mothers and family counseling and awareness campaigns have proven to be effective in decreasing the morbidity and mortality associated with poor feeding practices for infant and young child. Key words: complementary feedings, appropriate, mothers, perceived barriers, and infants
Recommended Citation
Sarwar, S. (2018). Perceived barriers for mothers to practice appropriate complementary feeding of infant in district Gilgit (Unpublished doctoral thesis). Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.