Maternal Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on Infant and Young Child Feeding in Gainza, Camarines Sur, Philippines

This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of mothers of children aged 6–23 months regarding infant and young child feeding in Gainza, Camarines Sur, Philippines. A cross-sectional descriptive-correlational design was employed among 168 mothers selected from eight barangays. Data were collected using a structured, expert-reviewed questionnaire covering maternal demographics, early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, and complementary feeding. Frequency, percentage, weighted mean, and Pearson product–moment correlation were used for analysis, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Most respondents were aged 25–30 years, high school graduates, unemployed or homemakers, and from households earning below ₱10,000 monthly. Mothers demonstrated very high knowledge, favorable attitudes, and generally appropriate self-reported practices across the three feeding domains. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices were positively and significantly related, with the strongest associations observed between attitudes and practices for complementary feeding and early initiation of breastfeeding. However, lower-scoring areas included avoidance of prelacteal feeding, concerns related to formula or other liquids during the first six months, and timely introduction of complementary foods. The findings suggest that maternal knowledge and positive attitudes provide a strong foundation for recommended feeding behaviors, although socioeconomic and contextual barriers may still affect full adherence. Community-based, family-centered nutrition education and practical feeding support are recommended.