Assisted breastfeeding technique to improve knowledge, attitude, and practices of mothers with cleft lip- and...

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.

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of specially designed audio-visual module over traditional instructional module in improving the assisted breastfeeding habits.

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.

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.

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.