Author(s): Kalpana and Dr. Shabnam Chhabra

Abstract:
The present study examines the factors that influence infant (6-24 months) weaning practices among working mothers of East Delhi. A descriptive cross-sectional study using purposive sampling was conducted at paediatrics outpatient department of urban health centres in East Delhi. Three hundred mothers of infants (aged 6-24 months of age) attending the paediatric outpatient departments of the health centres for growth monitoring, immunisation and minor illnesses such as upper respiratory tract infections were selected for the study. Mothers were interviewed using self-constructed semi-structured questionnaire for weaning practices which included socio-demographic information, weaning practices, family environment and support in child rearing. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results indicated that majority of mothers (88 percent) were full-time workers. More than half (60.34 percent) mothers were cohabitating in a joint family system which had mixed response in terms of support for child feeding practices. Only half of them (50%) reported having a satisfying family environment. However, most mothers (95.33%) did indicate having supportive spouses. Timely introduction of complementary feeds was initiated in 49% of the children. Only 6.7% weaned their children between 5-6 months; 90% weaned their children gradually, 80% used home-made food and 59% were providing ready-made food. Factors’ influencing complementary and weaning practices was found to be maternal age, family size and relationship between family members. Continuous health education on appropriate weaning practices should be imparted at every contact point to the mothers. Counselling them about weaning practices during antenatal check-ups and postnatal visits will go a long way in improving feeding practices.