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Breast-feeding: current knowledge, attitudes and practices of paediatricians and obstetricians
A Videlefsky1, C Nikodem, J Hofmeyr
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaicology, Coronation JG Strijdom Hospitals, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Insights
Most pediatricians and obstetricians in Johannesburg support breastfeeding but do not fully follow recommended guidelines. Ongoing education is crucial for improving breastfeeding management practices.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Breastfeeding is crucial for infant health.
- Healthcare professionals' adherence to guidelines impacts breastfeeding success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Johannesburg pediatricians and obstetricians regarding breastfeeding.
- To assess adherence to the WHO/UNICEF 10 Steps to Successful Breastfeeding.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among registered pediatricians and obstetricians in the greater Johannesburg area.
- Data collection focused on current breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes, and practices.
Main Results:
- A majority of surveyed doctors advocate for breastfeeding.
- However, there is a significant gap between advocacy and adequate adherence to recommended breastfeeding guidelines.
Conclusions:
- Physicians play a vital role in the initiation and maintenance of breastfeeding.
- There is an identified need for continuous education and intervention programs to enhance breastfeeding management skills among healthcare providers.
Objective:
To assess the current knowledge, attitudes and practices of Paediatricians and Obstetricians in the greater Johannesburg area, using WHO/UNICEF 10 Steps to Successful Breastfeeding as a guideline.
Design:
Survey.
Subjects:
All Paediatricians and Obstetricians registered with the SAMDC and practising in the greater Johannesburg area.
Results:
Most Paediatricians and Obstetricians advocate breastfeeding, but very few conform adequately to recommended guidelines.
Conclusion:
Doctors, as part of the healthcare team, can have a significant impact on the successful initiation and maintenance of breastfeeding. There is a need for ongoing education and intervention programmes to update current knowledge on breastfeeding management.