Initiation of Early and Exclusive Breastfeeding: Child‘s Right

Abstract

This study focuses on the initiation of early and exclusive breastfeeding pattern observed in the community in Aligarh. Breastfeeding is crucial for child survival right from the moment a baby is born. Colostrum (first milk) is considered as a life potion that provides the child with both nutrition and protection. The first hour in the life of a child is defining for survival because the infant is prone to infections and needs focused care. Initiation of breastfeeding during this hour is vital for survival. In this regard, trends in adoption of breastfeeding, initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour, within the first day and after, exclusive breastfeeding up to the age of 6 months, feeding the child other than the mother's milk and their types that are common in the community are studied. This study is based on primary data, which reveals that in 20 per cent cases breastfeeding was not initiated within 1 h. Subsequently, children were deprived of colostrum, which they needed most at that time. Around 30 per cent children were not exclusively breastfed according to Integrated Management of Neo-Natal Childhood Illnesses (IMNCI) guidelines. It is important to note that exclusive breastfeeding alone could be pivotal in reducing child mortality and increasing the rate of survival.