An Interventional Study on Knowledge of Breastfeeding Among Medical Students in a Medical College of Central Kerala

Abstract

BACKGROUND Breastfeeding is an extremely important and cost-effective intervention for the healthy growth and development of infants and young children. Physicians have an essential role in promoting breastfeeding as the ideal method of infant feeding. Medical students are also expected to have basic knowledge about breastfeeding practices so that they can guide the community to promote breastfeeding. This study was done to assess the knowledge regarding breastfeeding among medical students and to study the impact of the educational intervention. MATERIALS AND METHODS After getting approval from the research and ethical committee of the institution, an educational interventional study was conducted among the first year medical students. After obtaining informed consent, a baseline survey was conducted after their routine class hours using a pretested, semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire to assess the knowledge regarding breastfeeding. This was followed by an educational session regarding correct breastfeeding practices. Post-test survey was conducted after the educational intervention using the same questionnaire to assess the impact of education. RESULTS Out of the total 100 medical students studying in the first semester, 95 students who were present on the day of study participated. The female students constituted 69%. Their mean age was 19 years. The median score in knowledge improved from 14 to 20 after intervention and this was statistically significant Z= 8.234, p <0.001. CONCLUSION Overall knowledge of the students regarding breastfeeding was low before intervention, and there was a significant increase in knowledge after intervention. It is suggested to include integrated teaching for the first year medical students on the knowledge and importance of breastfeeding along with their anatomy and physiology classes related to this subject. This would improve their knowledge in this aspect, and this knowledge can be imparted to the community.