Vol. 6, Issue 11, Part D (2020)

Abstract
Exclusive breast feeding means giving only breast milk, from birth upto 6 months to an infant. This means no water, liquids, teats, herbal preparations or foods throughout the first 6 months of life. International guidelines recommended exclusive breast feeding based on the scientific evidence of the benefits for infant survival, growth and cognitive development and helped to reduce mortality and morbidity rates of neonates worldwide. Aim of study: The aim of study was to assess knowledge and practices regarding exclusive breast feeding among postnatal mothers Design: A non-experimental descriptive research design was used with purposive sampling technique. Material and methods: The sample of the study consisted of 60 postnatal mothers. A self structured questionnaire was used to assess knowledge and self structured checklist was used to assess practices of postnatal mothers regarding exclusive breast feeding. Analysis was done by using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings: The study findings showed that 55% of postnatal mothers had average knowledge, 45% had good knowledge regarding exclusive breast feeding. In terms of practices, 95% postnatal mothers had good practices and remaining 5% had poor practices regarding exclusive breast feeding. There was highly positive correlation between knowledge and practices regarding exclusive breast feeding among postnatal mothers.