Abstract:
A cross-sectional questionnaire survey, using the current status method for the assessment of
breastfeeding, was conducted among women working in the plantations in Sri Lanka. The exclusive
breastfeeding rate was 32.4 per cent The mothers' return to work and the feeling of having
insufficient milk were significantly and negatively associated with exclusive breastfeeding. Women
will sometimes start with powdered milk several weeks before going back to work, suggesting that
work itself is not the only reason for introducing powdered milk. Although the health authorities have
endorsed the concept of exclusive breastfeeding, further health education is needed for the full
acceptance of exclusive breastfeeding in the population.
