Qualitative exploration of bottle feeding practices among mothers of Dharwad district, Karnataka: a focus group discussion study

Background: WHO has stipulated that the feeding bottle with a nipple should not be used at any age, in order to achieve optimal growth, development, and health of infants. Despite this, bottle feeding to infants is still practiced across our country due to various socio-cultural reasons. This study aims to explore bottle feeding practices among mothers of Urban, Rural and Urban Slum areas. Methods: Qualitative Cross-sectional community based study of mothers attending anganwadi/immunization centre from urban, rural and slum areas. Data was collected by Focussed Group Discussion (FGD) regarding General knowledge on infant feeding and Bottle-feeding practices was discussed. Data was analysed by Content Based analysis and Ethnography. Results: Practice of bottle-feeding was adopted for mother’s illness and breast related health issues and some unacceptable reasons. Mothers opted for formula milk and cows’ milk equally, making commercially available milk packets as their next choice. No conclusion was made out from the methods of preparation in slum. Information about practicing hygiene in bottle feeding was scientific and justifiable. Conclusions: Practice of bottle-feeding was adopted rarely. Preparation methods were variable in all the mothers and were inconclusive in mothers from Slum. Majority practiced hygienic bottle feeding measures.