Knowledge, attitude, and practices of postnatal mothers towards neonatal skin care in a tertiary care hospital in Southern India

• Author Details:   
• Anannya S
• B Sai Rithika Reddy
• Abyramy Balasundaram ^*
• Durgadevi Ganesan
• CRV Narasimhalu

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Background: Neonatal skin care is crucial for maintaining skin integrity, preventing infections, and ensuring overall health. However, maternal knowledge and practices vary widely due to cultural beliefs, socioeconomic factors, and limited awareness. While some traditional practices are beneficial, others may pose risks, highlighting the need for standardized, evidence-based guidelines. This study evaluates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of postnatal mothers toward neonatal skin care in a tertiary care hospital in Southern India.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted from September 2024 to December 2024 at a teaching medical college in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. A total of 100 postnatal mothers were selected through non-probability convenience sampling. Data were collected via structured face-to-face interviews covering maternal hygiene, umbilical cord care, bathing practices, diaper care, and skincare routines. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize baseline characteristics, with categorical data presented as frequencies and percentages.

Results: The study found that beneficial practices, such as oil massage (98%) and the use of soft cotton clothing (85%), were widely followed. However, harmful practices, including immediate post-birth bathing (42%), vigorous scrubbing (30%), and applying unverified substances to the umbilical cord (63%), were common. Additionally, 75% of mothers applied kajal, unaware of its potential health risks. Awareness of evidence-based skin care was low, with only 37% following WHO-recommended cord care guidelines.

Conclusion: Neonatal skin is delicate and highly sensitive, necessitating specialized care to prevent irritation and infections. This study highlights gaps in maternal awareness, emphasizing the need for structured educational initiatives. Strengthening collaboration between dermatologists, paediatricians, and caregivers is essential to improve neonatal skin health and long-term well-being.