The knowledge, attitude and practice of breastfeeding among young mothers during pre-Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative implementation was conducted at seven private hospitals in Malaysia. A structured interviewer administered questionnaire was given to all mothers (n=Z52) visiting the antenatal/postnatal clinic of the hospitals. The main respondents were Malays (57.5%) and Chinese (35%) . For most mothers, breastfeeding was combined with supplementary feeds of formula milk, with only 30% breastfed exclusively. The majority of mothers knew that breast-milk contained antibodies and can prevent illness, however many were unaware of breastfeeding's contraceptive effect if practised exclusively. Most mothers did not relate breastfeeding as being environmental friendly. Generally, there was no knowledge gained from the experience of having more children with reference to breastfeeding. Most mothers were influenced by their own beliefs regarding choice of feeding method. Therefore, a mother was empowered with the knowledge of all practical aspects of breastfeeding, it would encourage her to breastfeed her baby.
Study site: seven private hospitals in Malaysia