Breastfeeding Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among Women Visiting Primary Health Centers in Southern Rajasthan, India

Abstract

Background
Although breastfeeding is globally recognized as the optimal infant feeding practice, local execution varies widely due to cultural, social and institutional factors. The study aimed to assess breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) among mothers attending primary health centers (PHCs) in the Udaipur district of Southern Rajasthan.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 340 lactating mothers (≥18 years old) caring for a child aged 2 years or younger from June 2025 to March 2026. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using an adapted, culturally validated questionnaire. Predictors of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) were analyzed using Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression. 
Results
Good breastfeeding knowledge was noted in 196 (57.6%) of mothers, though major gaps persisted in breast milk storage practices. Positive attitudes were low 58 (17.0%), undermined by cultural misconceptions. Favorable practices were reported by 240 (70.5%); early initiation within one hour was 276 (81.2%) and six‑month exclusivity was 188 (75.2%). Knowledge correlated moderately with practice (r=0.374, p<0.001). Multivariate regression showed exclusive breastfeeding was significantly associated with household family support (aOR = 2.48, 95% CI: 1.350-4.56, p=0.003) and professional antenatal counseling (aOR = 1.92, 95% CI: 1.02-3.61, p=0.044).
Conclusions
Although early initiation was widely adopted, cultural myths weakened maternal attitudes toward breastfeeding. Interventions must extend beyond awareness campaigns to include supportive workplace policies, structured primary care counseling and community‑based peer support networks.