THE INFLUENCE OF EDUCATIONAL VIDEOS ON MOTHERS' KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDES REGARDING EXCLUSIVE BREASTFEEDING AT SEMBIRING HOSPITAL IN 2026

Abstract

Exclusive breastfeeding up to six months of age is essential for infant growth and development; however, its coverage remains suboptimal due to low maternal knowledge and attitudes. One effort to improve maternal knowledge and attitudes is through educational video media. This study aimed to determine the effect of educational videos on mothers’ knowledge and attitudes toward exclusive breastfeeding at Sembiring General Hospital in 2026. This study employed a quasi-experimental design with a one-group pretest–posttest approach. The study sample consisted of breastfeeding mothers who met the inclusion criteria and received an intervention in the form of an educational video about exclusive breastfeeding. Maternal knowledge and attitudes were measured before and after the intervention using structured questionnaires. Data analysis was conducted using the paired t-test. The results showed a significant increase in mothers’ knowledge and attitude scores after the educational video intervention (p-value < 0.001). Educational videos were proven effective in improving knowledge and shaping positive maternal attitudes toward exclusive breastfeeding. Therefore, educational video media can be used as an alternative health education strategy to support the success of exclusive breastfeeding programs in healthcare facilities.