This community-based study from Lalitpur District, Uttar Pradesh (India) examined how Mother Support Groups (MSGs) influence infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices. MSGs—made up of trained local women such as traditional birth attendants, Anganwadi workers, and experienced mothers—conducted home visits and counseling across a population of over 1 million.
Findings show large improvements in breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices at 2 years (T1) and 5 years (T2) after the intervention: initiation of breastfeeding within 1 hour rose from 11% to 71% (T1) and 62% (T2); exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months increased from 7% to 50% (T1) and 60% (T2); avoidance of prelacteal feeds increased from 15% to 67% (T1) and 95% (T2); and timely complementary feeding improved markedly. Mothers’ confidence, help-seeking behavior, and responsive feeding also improved.
The study demonstrates that local peer support models, when well-trained and integrated into the health system, can sustainably improve IYCF practices at scale, with over 1,286 MSGs and 655,000+ counseling sessions delivered.
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Case studies and tools