Background: The postnatal period, defined as the time immediately after the birth of the baby and up to 6 weeks (42 days) after birth, is critical for newborn and mother. The majority of the neonatal deaths (75%) occurs during the 1st week of life, and between 25% and 45% occurs within first 24 h of birth. Two-thirds of all neonatal deaths occur due to prematurity, asphyxia, and sepsis while inappropriate feeding and cultural practices during the postnatal period may pose further risks to the life of newborn. All these maternal and neonatal problems could be reduced if women receive appropriate postpartum care [1].
Research Objectives: The objective was to study the knowledge, atittude, and practices regarding the postnatal care among among breastfeeding mother attended at magu district hospital in Mwanza Tanzania
Methodology: A cross sectional descriptive study was carried out among randomly selected postnatal mothers attended a postnatal care services at magu district hospital and Paediatric outpatient department at Magu district hospital. Data was collected through face-to-face interview using a structured questionnaire for a period of two weeks.
Results: Knowledge of mothers regarding breastfeeding practices (78%), thermal care (89%), skin and eye care (72%) was good. They have poor knowledge regarding dangers of pre-lacteal feeds (45%), timing of first bath after birth (60%), umbilical cord care (60%), and vaccination (36%). About 32% of them are practicing oil instillation into nostrils while 44% of mothers were intended to use gripe water for infantile colic.
Conclusion: The study highlights that there is vital need to improve the knowledge and awareness in the society regarding community-based newborn care. We should also strive toward helping removing myths and wrong practices, which are rampant in the community Postnatal care is regarded as one of the most important maternal health care services for the prevention of impairment and disability resulting from child birth. The postnatal care includes systematic examination of the mother and baby and appropriate advice given to the mother during postpartum period.