Odisha Sees Rise in Institutional Births but Decline in Breastfeeding Rates: NFHS-6
More institutional births, but fewer breastfed babies in Odisha: NFHS-6
Image: The Times Of India
The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6) indicates an increase in institutional births in Odisha, rising from 92.2% to 93.9%. However, the rate of exclusive breastfeeding among infants under six months has declined from 72.9% to 66.7%, highlighting a disconnect between healthcare access and infant feeding practices.
- 01Exclusive breastfeeding rates for infants under six months dropped from 72.9% in NFHS-5 to 66.7% in NFHS-6.
- 02Early initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour fell from 68.5% to 60.9% during the same period.
- 03Rural mothers are more likely to breastfeed within the first hour (61.2%) compared to urban mothers (58.6%).
- 04Urban mothers have a slightly higher rate of exclusive breastfeeding for six months at 68.3%, compared to 66.5% in rural areas.
- 05The proportion of C-section births increased from 21.6% to 29.4% between NFHS-5 and NFHS-6.
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The latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6) reveals a paradox in Odisha's maternal health: while institutional births have increased from 92.2% to 93.9%, breastfeeding practices have deteriorated. Exclusive breastfeeding rates among infants under six months have dropped from 72.9% in the previous survey to 66.7%. Additionally, the percentage of newborns breastfed within the first hour has decreased from 68.5% to 60.9%. The data shows a rural-urban divide, with rural mothers initiating breastfeeding earlier (61.2%) than urban mothers (58.6%). However, urban mothers are more successful in maintaining exclusive breastfeeding for six months at 68.3%, compared to 66.5% in rural areas. The survey also highlights a significant rise in caesarean section births, increasing from 21.6% to 29.4%. This trend raises concerns about the implications of medical interventions on breastfeeding practices.
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The decline in breastfeeding rates despite increased institutional births suggests a need for improved maternal education and support in infant feeding practices.
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