摘要："Background: Infant nutrition is a key factor for child survival, optimal growth and development and breastfeeding improves immunity to prevent childhood illnesses. We aimed to estimate exclusive breastfeeding rates and assess complementary feeding practices among 9 months old infants. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among mothers of infants coming for measles vaccination at three Primary Health Centres from January to December, 2013. Trained medical interns interviewed the mothers about breastfeeding and feeding practices using a structured pretested questionnaire. Results: Of the 4232 women, 954 children came for measles vaccination. Majorities (94%) were fed with colostrum, and about 83% were initiated breastfeeding within an hour after delivery. Only about 34% were exclusively breastfed up to six months. A total of 602 infants (66%) were given herbal drops (janam ghutti), animal milk, formula feeds were introduced at various ages prior to 6 months and the main reason cited by the mothers was insufficient breast milk production. Conclusions: Though feeding practices at birth were good, prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding was low. Measures should be undertaken to improve exclusive breastfeeding. Mothers attending vaccination clinics should be counselled about child feeding practices. "
关键词：Infant nutrition; Exclusive Breastfeeding; Complementary feeds; weaning foods; India
