Breastfeeding knowledge of mothers in protracted crises: the Gaza Strip example

Abstract The protection and support of breastfeeding is the most effective intervention to prevent child morbidity mortality especially in humanitarian crisis. During Palestine-Israel conflict healthcare services are understaffed lack basic resources, with frequent power cuts stock-outs essential drugs equipment. This case study seeks answer questions: (1) How does protracted crisis Gaza affect practices vulnerable population; (2) What role that midwives can play improving practices? was conducted using a mixed method approach quantitative qualitative methods. Purposeful selection women children utilising eligibility criteria, less than 2 years age were included. All respondents asked if they agreed participate survey. A total 63% practice early initiation 42% confirmed their new-borns given liquids other breast milk during first 3 days life. Fifty percent mothers addressed insufficiency by drinking additional fluids 40% infant formula. Only 18% said received information contact health professionals throughout labour, delivery, subsequent post-natal care visits. Many focus group discussions (FGDs) confirm top up or replace milk. Myths misconceptions around remain, while do access antenatal deliver facilities. There need a) adapt recommendations operational guidance for young feeding emergencies (IYCF-E) strip, protect, promote b) include skilled counselling pre-service in-service training midwives. Lessons learned included importance allocating research time, account interruption daily coordination security officers ensure safe localities c) identification extra sites, escalation d) enumerators e) negotiation authorities compliance requirements.