Assisted breastfeeding technique to improve knowledge, attitude, and practices of mothers with cleft lip‐ and palate‐affected infants: A randomized trial

• Published in: Special care in dentistry 2020-05, Vol.40 (3), p.273-279
• Main Authors: Murthy, Prashanth Sadashiva, Deshmukh, Seema, Murthy, Srinivasa
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: access/barriers to care; Breast Feeding; Breastfeeding & lactation; Cleft Lip; Cleft lip/palate; Cleft Palate; education (patients); Female; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Humans; Infant; Infants; Mothers
• ISSN: 0275-1879; 1754-4505
• DOI: 10.1111/scd.12464

Background Cleft lip and palate is one of the most common developmental anomalies affecting the craniofacial region leading to an array of problems including the inability to feed properly. Objectives This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of specially designed audio‐visual module over traditional instructional module in improving the assisted breastfeeding habits. Methodology Sixteen patients received training regarding the feeding practices through the traditional instructional method, and 16 subjects received training through audio‐visual module. Infants in both the groups received the standard care. These infants were followed up longitudinally for 6 months. During the follow up period, the growth parameters were recorded monthly. The knowledge, attitude, and practices of the mothers regarding feeding practices were assessed using KAP questionnaire. Results There was significant improvement in the knowledge of the mothers from baseline to 6 months, however, the practices indicated that the mothers belonging to the audio‐visual module group showed better understating of the condition and earlier adaptation of the breastfeeding practices. Correspondingly, the growth parameters also showed significant difference. Conclusion The custom‐made audio‐visual module would help the mothers adapt better to the stressful situation following the birth of the infant affected with cleft lip and palate.