Abstract

Background: Breastfeeding (BF) is critical for a baby's nourishment and development. There are a variety of misunderstandings about breastfeeding, which might have negative implications. This study aimed to determine women's breastfeeding knowledge and practices at rural referral hospitals. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study on randomly selected breastfeeding females in rural referral hospitals. The data for the study of breastfeeding knowledge and practices were collected using a semi-structured inquiry form. The information was imported into MS Excel, and a descriptive analysis was performed. Results: The majority of the mothers were aware of knowledge based on knowledge given by the doctor, the breastfeeding importance, breast milk nutrition, colostrum fed, exclusive breastfeeding duration of six months, initiation of weaning in six months and a majority of mothers were aware of practices based on not giving pre-lacteal feed given, bottle feeding, breast milk shortage, infant formula, duration of sucking.  Conclusion: Most mothers who gave birth to their child in rural referral hospitals had good knowledge and practices recommended for breastfeeding.