“Knowledge Regarding Human Milk Banking Among Postnatal Mothers”

Abstract

Background and Objective Human milk banking is a vital component of infant healthcare, providing a safe and nutritious source of breast milk for vulnerable infants. Human milk banking is a lifesaving intervention that provides a safe and nutritious source of breast milk for these vulnerable infant. Human milk banking involves the collection, screening, processing, and distribution of donated breast milk to infants in need. This practice has been shown to reduce morbidity and mortality rates among preterm and low-birth-weight infants, as well as those with compromised immune systems. Despite the numerous benefits of human milk banking, many mothers in India, including those in Kolhapur, remain unaware of this resource. Lack of knowledge and awareness about human milk banking can lead to delayed or inadequate access to this lifesaving intervention, compromising the health and well-being of vulnerable infants. This study aims to assess the knowledge of human milk banking among postnatal mothers in D.Y.Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Institute, Kolhapur, identifying the gaps and misconceptions that exist. The findings of this study will inform the development of targeted interventions to promote human milk banking and improve infant health and nutrition in the region of health and nutrition.

Objectives of the Study: 1. To assess the knowledge regarding human milk banking among postnatal mothers at selected hospitals in Kolhapur. 2. To find the association between knowledge scores regarding human milk banking among postnatal mothers and selected demographic variables.

Methods: The research approach adopted for the study was quantitative evaluative survey approach. A descriptive research design is used. Ethical clearance was obtained from the institution. Formal administration permission was obtained from the medical officer of D.Y.Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Institute, Kolhapur. Then 120 postnatal mothers were selected by using non probability purposive sampling technique. An informed consent was obtained from the participants. In order to obtain free and true response, the purpose and importance of the study was explained to selected samples. The main study was conducted at D.Y.Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Kolhapur from the postnatal mothers on 21/3/2025 to 27/3/2025. Data collection was done as per the timings provided by medical officer. Researchers introduced themselves to the samples. Explained the purposes and objectives of the study. Samples were taken into confidence and assured of confidentiality of their data identity and their responses. Average time was given for solve the questionnaire that is 30 min approximately.

Results: Indicates that majority of sample 52(84%) belongs to the age group of 25-27 and minimum 4(3.3%) belongs to age group 18-21 and above. Majority of sample 54(45%) belongs to second pregnancy and minimum 15(12.5%) belongs to third pregnancy and below. Majority sample belongs to 54(45%) to joint family and minimum 19(15%) belongs to expanded family and below. Majority of sample belongs to 61(50.8%) urban area and minimum 49(49.8%) belongs to rural area. Majority of sample 78(65%) have no pre-knowledge about the study and 42(35%) have some knowledge about the study. The maximum number of postnatal mothers 62(52.3%) have good knowledge, while some postnatal mothers 53(43.6%) have average knowledge whereas 5(5%) postnatal mothers have poor knowledge. The calculated Chi-square value was higher than tabulated value. The calculated Chi-square value for type education was greater than tabular value at p < 0.05 level of significance. Hence H1 was accepted.

Interpretation and Conclusion: The present study revealed that a majority 62(52.3%) have good knowledge indicating strong understanding, while 53(43.6%) possess an average level of knowledge reflecting moderate understanding. The remaining 5(5%) postnatal mothers have poor knowledge.