Role of Mothers Care in Neonatal Growth and Development Primi-Parous vs Multi-Parous

Aim: To assess the newborn care knowledge and practices among primi-parous and multi-parous mothers. Methods and Materials: A comparative study conducted in a SBMCH, Chennai. A total of 200 mothers, of which, 100 primi-parous, 100 multi-parous mothers accompanying their children in pediatric op were interviewed. Results: Compared to primi-parous, multi-parous mothers have good knowledge in the areas that were interviewed about the neonatal care. Mother’s educational, occupational and socioeconomic status also plays a role in neonatal care. Conclusion: Health education during the third trimester can improve the mothers’ knowledge regarding newborn care practices such exclusive breastfeeding, stoppage of discarding of colostrums cord care etc. Mothers who conceive for the second time would havegained knowledge in the above mentioned fields to prevent the mistakes that occurred in the first pregnancy.