Introduction

Newborns have the best chance of surviving, developing, and realizing their full potential when their mothers breastfeed them because human breast milk has unique biological properties and a dynamic, interactive composition [1]. In India, over 1.1 million infants die within their first month of life, with an additional 500,000 dying between two and 12 months of age [2]. Inadequate breastfeeding contributes to approximately 16% of child deaths annually [3]. Early breastfeeding cessation is frequently caused by a mother's lack of confidence in her ability to breastfeed, problems with the infant latching or suckling, breast pain or soreness, perceived insufficient milk supply, and a lack of individualized support from clinicians in the early post-discharge phase.

Addressing these issues requires antenatal education on the benefits of breastfeeding and mental preparation for exclusive breastfeeding [4]. Antenatal education is essential when the maternity stay after delivery is shorter, as there is limited time to learn about breastfeeding after birth. Prenatal visits allow health professionals to assess women’s breastfeeding knowledge and provide guidance on effective breastfeeding management [5]. In southern India, the impact of antenatal lactation counseling has been the subject of limited published research. Hence, this study was conducted to determine the effect of antenatal lactation counseling on postpartum mothers’ breastfeeding practices.