THE EFFECT OF ANALGESIC AND ANESTHETIC DRUGS GIVEN DURING LABOUR AND DELIVERY ON INITIATION OF BREAST FEEDING AMONG HEALTHY NEONATES

Abstract

This research involves a correlational survey of 150 mothers in early postpartum period to compare the effect of analgesic and anesthetic drugs on the initiatiori of breast feeding. Open systems model was the conceptual framework of the study. One hypothesis was formulated; the initiation ofbreast feeding would be earlier in mothers who received no drugs (analgesia and anesthesia) during labor and delivery than those who did. Data were collected through a structured personal interview and observation sheets to mothers and neonates of the Post-partum Unit at EI-Galaa Educational Maternity Hospital which constituted the setting of the study. The sample was divided into two study groups and one as a control group. Results revealed that the initiation of breast feeding was earlier in the control group than the two study groups (p < 0.000 I). A statistically significant difference in relation to neonates' general condition after delivery between the two study groups and the control group appeared by Chi-square = 26.60 at p = 0.0008. Results supported the hypothesis that women

who received no-drugs initiate breast feeding earlier than women who received analgesic and/or anesthetic drugs. Findings revealed that there is a positive relationship between drugs given (analgesics and anesthetics) during labor and delivery and the initiation of breast feeding after delivery. In general, mothers who received analgesic and anesthetic drugs were delayed in the initiation of breast feeding and the neonates of those mothers were more leepy than those of mothers who received no drugs.