Bio-cultural Aspects of First-feeding Practices Among Hilly Tribal Infants: A Qualitative Observational Study

Abstract

Objective

This study delves into the biocultural aspects of first-feeding practices among Porja hilly tribe living in Andhra Pradesh, India.

Materials and Methods

This community-based qualitative observational study was conducted among 44 tribal infants whose mothers were purposively selected through the inclusion of criteria of having given birth in the last 60 days. The study period was carried out between May 2023 and October 2023. Semi-structured household surveys and in-depth interview schedules guided the study. Qualitative data was analysed using the thematic framework approach, which allows the analysis of the interview transcripts, field notes and informal conversations to find the associations between the expressions without missing the gut feelings and ingrained cultural notions around the practices.

Results

Three major themes with two sub-themes were generated from thematic analysis, such as (1) first feeding, (2) denied feeding and (3) delayed feeding. These findings provided the details account for the cultural reasons for pre-lacteal feeding by practicing colostrum avoidance and delayed breastfeeding practices on the Porja tribal neonates

Discussion

The persistence of culture-specific traditional beliefs in shaping neonatal health is a pressing issue. The study’s findings highlight the importance of preserving beneficial traditional methods while addressing harmful practices. This approach could significantly improve the health status of tribal newborn babies, particularly in resource-poor settings with inadequate neonatal services.